A barre is a stationary handrail

Handrail

A handrail is a rail that is designed to be grasped by the hand so as to provide stability or support. Handrails are commonly used while ascending or descending stairways and escalators in order to prevent injurious falls. Other applications include bathroom handrails—which help to prevent falls on...

 that is used during ballet

Ballet

Ballet is a type of performance dance, that originated in the Italian Renaissance courts of the 15th century, and which was further developed in France and Russia as a concert dance form. The early portions preceded the invention of the proscenium stage and were presented in large chambers with...

 warm up

Warming up

A warm-up is usually performed before participating in technical sports or exercising. A warm-up generally consists of a gradual increase in intensity in physical activity , a joint mobility exercise, stretching and a sport related activity. For example, before running or playing an intense sport...

 exercises. The term also refers to the exercises that are performed at the barre, as well as that part of a ballet class that incorporates barre exercises.

Construction

The design of a barre—which includes both the handrail and its support mechanism—depends on whether the barre is to be portable or permanently located. A permanent barre typically consists of a handrail that is mounted to and supported by a wall, whereas a portable barre consists of a handrail mounted onto a rigid, free-standing supporting structure. Barre handrails and supports are typically made of metal, wood, or a combination of both. The handrail, which is positioned approximately at waist-height, has a diameter of approximately one and one-half inches.

Exercises

Barre exercises include both slow exercises, which stretch and warm up muscles, and fast exercises, which help dancers strengthen muscles and maintain technique at any speed. Each barre exercise has a specific purpose, such as to strengthen feet, increase extension, improve flexibility, and help a dancer find their ballon

Ballon (ballet)

Ballon is the appearance of being lightweight and light-footed while jumping. It describes the quality, not the height or speed, of a jump. It is a desirable aesthetic in ballet and other dance genres, making it seem as though a dancer effortlessly becomes airborne, floats in the air, and lands...

. Proper placement (positions of feet

Positions of the feet in ballet

The positions of the feet in ballet is a fundamental part of classical ballet technique that defines proper placement of feet on the floor. There are five basic positions of the feet in modern-day classical ballet, known as the first through fifth positions...

 and arms in ballet) and posture is emphasized in all exercises.

The barre helps dancers by providing stability and balance, especially while learning correct placement. Barre exercises are often a significant portion of the beginning dancer's class, but the barre continues to be an important tool in all levels of ballet. Barre work can help to prepare dancers for partnering, with the barre simulating the support of a real partner. Barres are an essential tool for beginning pointe dancers, as their ankles may not be strong enough to support them in the center.