What are the Most Common Ballet Dance Exercises?
Ballet is a style of performance dance that was created during the 15th century in France. Complex positions and dance moves make up the art of ballet. A ballerina needs to participate in simple exercise practices to remain limber and perfect ballet dance moves. Ballet exercises can be done at home or at a dance studio.
Plie
The plié is the most common ballet exercise. Plié is French for “to bend” and this exercise helps develop balance. The plié exercise consists of dancers bending their knees, while holding their toes pointed outwards. The more you bend, the more unbalanced you will become. This exercise can be used with and without a handrail.
Turnout
The turnout exercise focuses on the movements of the feet and ankles. Dancers use this exercise to force their instep to an outward direction, which will aid the curve of the leg. Dancers turn their legs and feet outward away from one another. Turnout keeps the muscles in the buttocks, abdomen and thighs toned and lean. The lower body is used for the turnout position, which relieves stress on your neck and arms. This exercise can be done with our without a handrail.
Oblique Passé Lifts
The exercise passé is a ballet move where you place one foot close to the knee of the opposite leg and bend bringing your elbow to your knee. Hold the position for five seconds and then return to a upright position. Repeat the exercise 10 times and then switch legs. This exercise improves posture and strengthens the muscles of the buttocks and legs.
Rises
Rises is the exercise of standing on your toes. Stand on your toes for five seconds while maintaining your balance. This exercise will strengthen your calf muscles and also help maintain toe balance.
Ankle Work
Strong ankles are necessary in ballet to avoid serious injury. Ankle work or ankle strengthening exercises should be on every ballerinas exercise regimen. The best exercise is to lie down on your back and raise your legs up in the air. Flex and point your toes and roll your ankles.
Inner Leg Lifts
Inner leg lifts improve your turnouts and strengthens your inner thigh muscle. Place a chair down in an open space and lie next to it on your side. Balance yourself on one elbow and raise your upper leg to the chair bottom.