What is Barre Au Sol?
A mind and body conditioning system based on classical ballet principles
The Essence of Barre Au Sol
Barre Au Sol, which translates to "barre on the floor," is a comprehensive conditioning system that adapts classical ballet exercises to be performed on the floor rather than standing at a barre.
Created by renowned ballet master Boris Kniaseff in the mid-20th century, this method was originally developed when he was teaching in a studio where attaching barres to the historical walls was prohibited. His innovative solution was to bring the work to the floor, which not only solved the practical problem but revealed profound benefits for dancers' technique and body awareness.
Today, Barre Au Sol is practiced worldwide by dancers and non-dancers alike, valued for its ability to build strength, enhance flexibility, and develop precise body control in a joint-friendly, accessible format.
Core Principles
Barre Au Sol is built upon these fundamental principles that guide every movement and exercise.
Correct Body Placement
The foundation of all movement begins with proper alignment of the spine, pelvis, and limbs. This creates efficiency in movement and prevents injury.
Intrinsic Muscle Strengthening
Focus on developing the deeper, stabilizing muscles of the feet, ankles, legs, back, and core that support elegant, controlled movement.
Flexibility Development
Systematic stretching that respects the body's natural structure while gradually increasing range of motion and freedom of movement.
Precise Alignment
Attention to the exact positioning of each body part creates efficiency in movement and develops the neural pathways for refined control.
Optimal Hip Rotation
Developing proper turnout from the hip joints rather than forcing the feet, creating a foundation for elegant movement while protecting the knees and ankles.
Breath Awareness
Coordinating movement with breath to enhance efficiency, release tension, and develop the mind-body connection essential for expressive movement.
Benefits of Barre Au Sol
Regular practice of Barre Au Sol offers numerous physical and mental benefits:
- Long, Lean Physique
Develop elongated muscles without bulk, creating an elegant, balanced body.
- Injury Prevention
Build body awareness and proper technique that translates to safer movement in daily life and other physical activities.
- Enhanced Movement Quality
Develop refined coordination, grace, and precision in all movements.
- Improved Posture
Strengthen the core and back muscles that support proper alignment, creating a more elegant carriage.
- Joint-Friendly Conditioning
Build strength and flexibility without the impact or stress on joints that can occur in standing exercises.
- Mental Clarity
The focused, mindful nature of the practice promotes stress reduction and mental well-being.
Who Can Benefit from Barre Au Sol?
While originally developed for dancers, Barre Au Sol is accessible and beneficial for a wide range of individuals.
For Dancers
Barre Au Sol offers dancers a powerful complement to traditional training by:
- Refining turnout from the correct muscles
- Developing deep core stability for balance and control
- Increasing articulation of the feet and spine
- Providing injury prevention through proper alignment
- Offering a safe way to maintain technique during injury recovery
Experience the Benefits of Barre Au Sol
Join a class and discover how this elegant practice can transform your body awareness, strength, and flexibility.