Level: Foundation I | Duration: 28 minutes | Equipment required: Barre, chair, or counter for balance.
This lesson focuses on how to execute Port de bras with a bend in the body to the back. Bending to the back is the most challenging direction to bend – it is hard to do correctly and very easy to pick up bad habits early. Practicing the correct way to bend to the back in ballet is critical to avoid future unnecessary back problems. We recommend you familiarize yourself with previous Port de bras lessons and our Introduction to Stretching, which includes preparation for a back bend in the body.
In this lesson you will learn:
- How to use the correct muscles and placement as you execute Port de bras with a bend to the back
- Correct arm placement and use of the head
- How to isolate the mobility in your upper back
- How to support the bending to the back correctly to prevent injury
Instructors: Hannah Mae Cruddas, Adrián Ramírez Juárez, Ana Zamora
Required Skills:
101 – The Basic Arm Positions,
111 – Basic Port de Bras with Heads,
133 – Introduction to Stretching for Ballet