Cambre in ballet is a French term in ballet that means arched. It also means ‘to throw out one’s chest.’
In ballet, we don’t actually throw our chests out, as you would do some serious damage. Instead, the dancer would bend gently to the back, side, or front, or even in a circular motion.
If the dancer does a cambre forward, she bends from the hips.
If the dancer does a cambre sideways or backward, she bends from the waist.
When it comes to ballet, the enchanting art of movement and grace, the key to achieving breathtaking performances lies in mastering various techniques and elements.
One such element is cambre, a fundamental movement that involves a beautiful arching of the body, creating fluid lines and adding an ethereal quality to a dancer’s movements.
To achieve a perfect cambre, a ballet dancer must possess exceptional flexibility. In this article, we will explore the importance of cambre in ballet and provide you with a comprehensive guide on stretching exercises to help improve your flexibility for better cambre execution.
Why Do We Do A Cambre In Ballet?
Cambre is a wonderful way for the dancer to stretch. When the cambre is done forward, the hamstrings are stretched. The entire torso is stretched and the spine is loosened. Flexibility is gradually developed in the upper and middle back while the upper body enjoys a wide range of motion.
Cambre, originating from the French word ‘to arch,’ refers to the graceful backward bending of the spine in ballet. It is an essential movement that showcases a dancer’s ability to create stunning lines and express emotions through fluid body movements.
The Emergence of the Cambre was an evolution from rigid, vertical positions to more fluid movements.
In the Romantic Period of ballet, the Cambre was used for emotional expression and storytelling.
Here is a video that demonstrates how to do a cambre in ballet.
Types of Cambre:
- Arabesque Cambre: This variation involves bending backward while maintaining a leg in an arabesque position.
- Back Cambre: A smooth and controlled arching of the back while standing upright.
- Side Cambre: A lateral bending of the body towards one side while maintaining balance and control.
Points To Watch For When Doing A Cambre
While flexibility is essential for executing Cambre in ballet, proper technique and alignment are equally important.
It is crucial to maintain a strong engagement of the core muscles and a lengthened spine throughout the movement. Avoid overarching the lower back or collapsing into the movement. Instead, focus on a gradual and controlled curve that flows seamlessly from the crown of the head to the tailbone.
- Never pull backward on the legs when doing a cambre forward.
- Move the chest up, out, and away from your legs, and don’t just think of going down.
- Keep your hips firmly in place, especially when going to the side.
- Resist the temptation to sacrifice form for stretching.
- Think about your shoulders. They shouldn’t hunch up at any time.
- Hold the turnout at all times.
- Lift the torso well before stretching.
- Try not to pull on the barre.
- Think about control in the core (zip up your jeans).
Stretching Exercises to Improve Cambre In Ballet:
Here are some stretching exercises that can help improve your cambre:
Cat-Cow Stretch:
Start by kneeling on all fours, with your wrists aligned under your shoulders and knees under your hips. Begin arching your back upward, drawing your belly button towards your spine, and then slowly lowering your back while lifting your chest and tailbone.
Repeat this movement for several repetitions, focusing on deepening the curve of your spine.
Cobra Stretch:
Lie on your stomach with your legs straight and your hands under your shoulders. Press your hands into the floor and lift your upper body, arching your back as much as possible while keeping your hips grounded. Hold this position for 15-30 seconds, breathing deeply and feeling the stretch in your back.
If you feel any discomfort in your lower spine, widen the distance between your legs.
Backbend:
Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart. Place your hands on your lower back, fingers pointing downward. Slowly begin to arch your spine backward, gently pushing your hips forward. Keep your legs straight and engage your core for stability. Hold this position for 10-30 seconds, then slowly come back to a neutral standing position.
Bridge Pose:
Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet hip-width apart, flat on the floor. Place your arms alongside your body, palms down. Press through your feet and lift your hips off the ground, creating a bridge-like shape with your body.
Hold this position for 20-30 seconds, focusing on opening the front of your body and stretching your back.
Conclusion:
Cambre is a fundamental movement in ballet that adds grace and elegance to any performance.
To execute cambre correctly, flexibility and strength in the back muscles are crucial.
By incorporating appropriate stretching exercises into your ballet training, you can develop the necessary range of motion and control to improve your cambre. Remember to always prioritize technique and alignment to ensure safe and effective practice.
With consistent effort and dedication, you can enhance your cambre and elevate your overall ballet performance.
