What You'll Learn
- How to coordinate arms and hips to generate essential turning torque
- Piqué entry techniques for maintaining balance and vertical alignment
- How to use a fondu to drive momentum into your center movements
- Practical drills to improve pivot control and weight distribution
About This Video
Welcome to your journey into center work with Broche Ballet. In this 22-minute session, we dive deep into the fundamental mechanics of the piqué turn, one of the most exciting movements in a beginner's repertoire. This is the first week of a three-part series designed specifically for absolute beginners who want to build a solid foundation in turning technique.
The secret to a successful turn isn't just about spinning; it's about physics. We focus heavily on the concept of torque and how your upper body works in harmony with your lower body. You will learn how to coordinate a deep plié or fondu with a sharp movement of the arms and hips to create the necessary momentum.
By understanding the push and pull relationship between your limbs, you can achieve a stable pivot and a clean finish. Throughout this practice, we will break down the piqué entry step-by-step. We examine how the hip must move forward as the upper body initiates the twist.
This coordination is essential for maintaining your vertical axis and preventing the common mistake of falling off-balance. We also introduce visualization techniques to help you feel the flow of energy through your frame, allowing you to move with more confidence and grace. Exercises include standing plié sequences and isolated arm-and-leg coordination drills.
We emphasize the transition from a wide second position to a gathered first position, ensuring that your weight transfer is precise and intentional. By practicing these movements slowly, you develop the muscle memory needed for more complex center work in future weeks. We focus on the importance of the 'punch'—that quick, energetic movement that provides the turning force required for a clean rotation.
Consistency is key in ballet. We encourage you to review these torque-building exercises throughout your week. As you gain comfort with the specific mechanics of the piqué turn, you'll find that your overall balance and control in the center improve significantly.
Join us at Broche Ballet as we demystify the art of turning, making it accessible and achievable for every adult dancer.
