You are here:

Ballet/Strengthing

Advertisement

Expert: - 7/10/2010


Question
Hello! I have a problem with my legs and my abs.
When I lift my legs, I always end up using the quads. As I result, I am now developing scary bulky quads. How can I develop my hamstrings to the point that they can lift my leg. However, how do you lift you leg with only your hamstrings? It seems impossible for me.
As for my abs, I am trying to engage them when I do my pirouettes. But I can't seems too. When I do my pirouettes, I always lean backwards and I can't seem to control myself.

Answer
Hi Som. Here are two articles which will help you:

http://balletshoesandpointeshoes.blogspot.com/2010/07/get-higher-developpe.html

http://balletshoesandpointeshoes.blogspot.com/2009/10/still-trying-to-lift-your-...

http://balletshoesandpointeshoes.blogspot.com/2008/05/how-to-improve-basics-of-p...

http://balletshoesandpointeshoes.blogspot.com/2008/02/build-strength-for-long-an...

http://balletshoesandpointeshoes.blogspot.com/2008/02/ultimate-ballet-line-arabe...

http://balletshoesandpointeshoes.blogspot.com/2007/11/building-strength-for-stro...

That's quite a lot to read - and will help you figure out what you need to improve on in ballet class.

You'll understand that the quads do lift the legs to the front and side, and the hamstring lifts the leg to the back. And you'll understand how to strengthen the psoas muscle to lift the legs above ninety degrees, and gradually you'll stop straining the quads.

All the best, Dianne

Ballet

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Dianne M. Buxton

Expertise

I can answer questions about ballet positions, ballet movements and ballet technique, pointe shoes and pre pointe exercise, mens training, ballet diet, general health issues related to dance, artistry, performance, modern dance, rehabilitation from injuries, and teaching ballet. I have taught ballet, choreographed, produced and directed dance companies. For any answers related to health questions I will offer my experience, and give references to information, but I also automatically include "see a professional".

Experience

dancer, ballet and modern, choreographer, dance teacher, artistic director, ballet mistress, producer

Organizations
I.S.T.D. Actra, Actors Equity

Publications
http://ezinearticles.com http://ballettoeshoes.blogspot.com http://streetarticles.com http://balletconnections.com

Education/Credentials
Graduate of the National Ballet School of Canada where I studied Cecchetti, Bournonville, Vaganova and Graham technique. Taught at the National Ballet School of Canada, York University, George Brown College and Harvard University.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.