Beginning Again

[Guest meadowzephyr]

Hello,

 

I took some dance in High School, mostly focused on Modern and Jazz, tough we learned the basics of ballet as well. The courses weren't really comprehensive, but I enjoyed them. Recently I just signed up to take a beginner's ballet class and I've noticed that I seem to have quite a few problems, but one in particular I think might affect my improvement.

 

My knees seem to go back further than most. For example when I'm standing straight up, my knee joints go back and create an arch. If one were looking at my legs from the side, they would curve backwards. I can also stand in such a way that they are straight, but I think this might affect my battements and tendus, since my leg curves backward. Is this an impediment in ballet? Thanks

[Victoria Leigh]

Hello meadowzephyr, welcome to Ballet Talk for Dancers

 

It sounds like you have hyperextended legs Not a bad thing, just something a bit more difficult to learn to control. It is actually good, as usually people with hyperextended legs have good line and feet. But, the problem is placement. You have to learn to control the hyperextension and not push back into it. This comes from correct alignment and placement, and careful teaching to be sure that you don't use the hyperextension incorrectly on the standing leg. For the leg that is in the air,it makes a better line than most. If you have the feet that often go along with hyperextension, then you will be fine as long as your teacher understands how to work with hyperextension.

[Guest meadowzephyr]

Thank you for such a clear reply! I didn't know that this had a name nor that it could be an asset. Now I will put forth an effort not push back on my supporting leg.

 

What type of feet are usually associated with hyperextended legs?

[Victoria Leigh]

Very often the foot is a good ballet foot, with a high arch and instep.

[Guest meadowzephyr]

Interesting. Thanks again!