Arabesque

ar*a*besque

What Is The Definition Of Arabesque In Gymnastics?

1. An arabesque is a one-legged pose. The gymnast stands on one leg while the other leg is placed up into the air behind them. The supporting leg can be bent or straight while the leg in the air should be straight. The goal is to bring the leg in the air as high up behind them as possible while keeping one’s trunk vertical.

On What Events Can An Arabesque Be Performed?

An arabesque can be performed on floor or beam. It is also a common dance pose in ballet.

How Do You Do An Arabesque?

An arabesque is an element requiring balance, strength and flexibility. To perform an arabesque, use the following steps:

1. Stand on both legs with feet close together and hips and shoulders square. 
2. Place your arms out to the sides of you to help you balance.
3. Shift your weight to the supporting leg.
4. Keeping your core tight, start to raise your other leg behind you and up. Make sure your toes are pointed and you are rotating the hip outward slightly.
5. Continue to raise the leg behind you until you start to lose form.

In Elite Gymnastics, Where Is An Arabesque Commonly Seen?

In elite gymnastics, an arabesque usually occurs in combination with another skill. Two examples are:

• The arabesque could be the position a gymnast holds while doing a turn.
• The arabesque could be the landing position of a leap on the balance beam.

What Are Some Drills To Improve An Arabesque?

The following drills can help someone improve their arabesque:

• Back and hip stretches to improve flexibility
• Planks to strengthen the core
• Glute bridges for hip strength
• Supermans for low stability and control

Example Of How Arabesque Is Used In Commentary

1. Part of Nastia Luikin’s beam routine at the 2008 Visa Championships included a front toss into an arabesque.

Sport The Term Is Used

1. Gymnastics