What You'll Learn
- The 'back-to-front' leg pathway hack to increase fouetté speed and closure accuracy.
- How to utilize a slower tempo to build foundational stability and core control during turns.
- Advanced techniques for managing momentum to ensure clean, upright pirouette landings.
- Drills using tendu side and devant plié to prepare the body for controlled rotation.
About This Video
In this third installment of our specialized turning series at Broche Ballet, we dive deep into the mechanics of one of ballet’s most impressive and challenging movements: the fouetté. Designed specifically for intermediate to advanced adult dancers, this 27-minute practice session moves beyond mere repetition, focusing instead on the physiological and technical foundations required for consistent, beautiful turns. We understand that turns can be intimidating, which is why we break down complex movements into manageable, repeatable drills that prioritize quality over quantity.
We begin by breaking down the fouetté with a specific emphasis on stability and core control rather than raw speed. You will learn a unique technical 'hack' for passing the leg from back to front—moving to the back first and then transitioning to the front. This specific pathway provides the necessary momentum to close the turn cleanly and helps you maintain your spot throughout the sequence. By practicing these drills at a slower tempo, you can identify precisely where your balance shifts and learn to maintain a calm, centered presence even during high-velocity rotations. A strong, quiet core is the secret to successful turning, and we spend significant time reinforcing this stability through targeted exercises.
In addition to fouettés, this class tackles the common challenge of pirouette landings. Many dancers struggle with falling out of turns or 'stumbling' during the finish due to unchecked momentum. We practice specific drills involving tendu side and devant plié to help you internalize the sensation of 'holding back up and in.' This internal engagement, often described as feeling like you are being pushed in the stomach, is the key to stopping your momentum exactly when you want to, allowing for a poised and professional finish every time. Whether you are preparing for center work or simply want to feel more secure in your execution, these drills provide the structured practice needed to transform your technique and build the confidence necessary for elite-level turning.
