What You'll Learn
- The essential 'push and fall' mechanic that defines the waltz balancé rhythm
- How to maintain a straight, calm front leg to avoid unnecessary kicking or bending
- Techniques for keeping the back heel lifted on demi-pointe during weight shifts
- Progression from parallel alignment to turned-out execution for better stability
- Integration of the plié and relevé to create a fluid, continuous movement
About This Video
Mastering the elegance of the waltz balancé requires more than just moving through the steps; it requires an intimate understanding of the 'rocking step' that gives the movement its signature lilt. In this focused practice session from Broche Ballet, we break down the mechanics of this challenging concept to help you achieve a more fluid and professional look. The waltz balancé is a fundamental movement used in everything from simple across-the-floor exercises to complex adagio variations, making it essential for any dancer to master.
The rocking step often feels awkward or jerky because many dancers attempt to bend or kick the front leg as they transition between weights. Our instructor guides you through a progressive series of exercises designed to isolate the 'push and fall' technique. We begin in a neutral, parallel position at the barre to focus purely on the vertical weight transfer.
By pushing up onto the back foot and allowing the front foot to simply 'be'—hanging naturally without tension—you learn to avoid the common mistake of overworking the front leg and losing your alignment. As you progress through the drill, you will move from parallel to a turned-out position, integrating the plié and relevé. One of the key technical takeaways is maintaining the height of the back heel on demi-pointe; allowing the heel to drop prematurely ruins the timing and the 'rocking' quality of the balancé.
You will also learn how to execute a clean coupé and prepare for more advanced petite allegro combinations. This practice is specifically designed to help you 'calm' your movements. Instead of big sweeps or dégagés that can throw off your center and disrupt your rhythm, we focus on a straight, calm front leg that remains ready for the next step.
By the end of this tutorial, you will understand how to coordinate the relevé with the plié to create a seamless, rhythmic waltz.
