Even though the barre is a place typically used to warm up, it can be used for so much more than just that. The barre is where every dancer starts and where they all return. It is great for learning and reviewing basics throughout your dance career. Whether you are getting ready for the competitive season, working on strength and technique, or trying to get cleaner lines, the barre is going to be your new best friend.
The best part about this? You don’t even need a whole dance studio to practice. All you need is a barre (or the back of a chair) and some time.
Plié: The Foundation of Everything
Pliés might seem like light work. However, they are the foundation of almost every move that you are going to be doing. They improve your turnout, give you stronger muscles, and help your movements to flow smoothly. Really focus on keeping your chin up with a tall posture, your knees over your toes, and your core tight and engaged. Try doing demi and grand pliés in all positions to warm up your muscles and remind your body of proper alignment before you start any other barre work.
Relevé and Elevé: For Power and Balance
As a dancer, the stronger your legs and feet are, the better. That is where these come in. Relevés (rising onto the balls of your feet from plié) and elevés (rising from straight legs) help train stability and endurance. Try doing small sets of these in first, second, and fifth position. Focus on staying slow and controlled, don’t rush these. The more consistent your relevés, the more powerful your turns and jumps will be.
Tendu: For Clean Lines and Precision
Every tendu that you do helps you develop cleaner lines, stronger legs, and better footwork, which translates onto the dance floor. Point through your toes fully, keeping your heel forward and your legs turned out. Start out slow and controlled, focus on simply controlling the push out and the return. This is key. This will help your transitions to flow better and look more elegant.
Rond de Jambe: For Flexibility and Fluidity
Rond de jambe teaches your legs how to move in full, graceful circles. It’s all about control and fluid motion. If you are looking to improve mobility and flexibility in your hips and turnout, this is the perfect exercise. Try doing them both en dehors (outward) and en dedans (inward), and keep your torso still while your leg moves. Imagine that you are drawing small circles with your toes while keeping your core engaged.
Fondu: For Strength and Grace Together
Fondus are the perfect blend of power and control. They help strengthen your supporting leg while teaching you how to move smoothly through plié and extension. Focus on keeping both legs active, keeping control, and having even weight distribution throughout your body. The goal is to make your movement look effortless—even when it’s burning!
