By Joie Goh
It’s one of the most iconic moves in ballet, and we do it all the time at WeBarre. Here are some tips to get your form right – not only to challenge yourself more in class, but also to strike that gorgeous pose for a post-class #webarrewefie!
Tip #1: Always find that toe to knee connection
If it looks like a yoga tree pose, it’s not a passé. Don’t get us wrong – the tree pose is excellent for challenging and improving your balance during yoga practice! However, the key difference between the two very similar-looking moves is that a passé engages the calf muscles and stretches the ankle as well. Instead of pressing the entire sole of the foot onto the opposite inner thigh, the passé requires a graceful pointed foot with only the big toe touching the inside of the opposite knee.
Tip #2: Keep your hips square
In a bid to get a higher passé, a common mistake is to lift the hip and lean over to the side. By doing so, you won’t be getting the core and hip strengthening benefits of this move!
Instead, focus on keeping both hip bones level and the spine upright and neutral. If you’re unable to draw your foot up as high as you like when you are doing so, don’t sweat it! With regular practice, you will gain more mobility and flexibility, as well as strength and balance.
Tip #3: Avoid sickling the foot
What is a “sickled foot”? The term comes from the fact that a sickled foot literally looks like a sickle! Sickled feet happen when the ankle is tensed and the toes are scrunched inwards.
Instead, lengthen and stretch the ankle, and engage the arch of the foot to form a proper pointed toe. There should be a long, continuous line from the shin towards the toes, instead of a bend in the ankle. Doing this properly will also tone and sculpt your calf muscles!
Interested in learning more about proper form and alignment, and want to get more out of your regular WeBarre workouts? Then check out our Raise the Barre: Masterclass workshops! In this 2-day, 6-hour workshop, you will also study the body’s anatomy and how the WeBarre Method works on the body, as well as proper breathing techniques while exercising. Click here to book your spot!
