Ballet Yoga
aka Universal Physicality (UP)

“UP”, which combines Classical Ballet and Yoga techniques, is an intense, yet slow moving program for learning to use the body as a whole in order to maximize movement potential. While doing "UP", everyone works to his or her capabilities, challenging themselves at their own level. The main intent is to learn how to override normal muscles and muscles groups that serve to move the body and incorporate lesser used and even smaller muscles and muscle groups to increase mobility of the body. [For example, in order to lift the leg, one generally considers only the quadriceps or thigh muscles, in "UP" you learn to rotate the leg away from the body (external rotation) to a certain extent in order to incorporate all of the abductor muscles, lengthen the "Y" ligaments of the hip, or hip flexors in order to create a wider range of motion therefore using more muscle mass to lift that leg.] "UP" is about learning the full potential of the body in all areas, using the back to help move the arms, the buttocks and pelvis to help move the legs, etc.

Core strength, which is really Trunk strength, is also an important part of "UP". Unlike other workout programs, where the exercises for core strength often cause compression and tension in the neck, shoulders and lower back, “UP” uses specific body positions to alleviate that stress. The majority of “UP”’s core work keeps the head, neck, shoulders and hips safely on the ground and tension-free, allowing the major and deeper muscles in the back and abdomen to engage and strengthen.

Relaxation is also a key part of "UP" and the technique has often been compared to Yoga and Tai Chi because it incorporates breathing techniques and relaxation. The importance of learning to relax certain parts of the body while working others is of major importance in order to build strength in the lesser used muscles and muscles groups, therefore emphasis is put on relaxation while working. "The more you relax, the more you stretch, the more you stretch, the more possibilities there are for building strength!" is one of “UP”'s major philosophies.

“UP” also allows for a level of improvement in mental health. Those who suffer from injuries, or who are involved in the stresses of the competitive worlds of athletics, dance or even business, are able to find a way to reduce the stress, as well as building self-esteem. Participants have expressed that UP has a positive effect on their mental health. This is clearly evident for individuals who suffer from injuries, but “UP” also works to reduce stress and build self-esteem for people who function in the highly competitive worlds of athletics, dance or business. “UP” works for you!

Marka In the News
Adapting to a New Reality - View Here