What You'll Learn
- The "Ears-Shoulders-Hips" alignment technique for stable rotations.
- How to use the back to generate controlled momentum and power.
- Proper timing for the plié, push-off, and landing phases of a turn.
- Techniques for finishing turns smoothly by lowering on flat feet.
- Strategies to address imbalances between your "comfy" and "funky" sides.
About This Video
Welcome to the first installment of the Broche Ballet Beginner Turning Series. Mastering the art of the turn requires more than just a quick spin; it demands a deep understanding of body mechanics, timing, and the physics of momentum. In this 22-minute class, we strip back the complexity of the pirouette to focus on the fundamental "motor" of every turn: your back and alignment.
One of the most common challenges for dancers is finding the right balance between power and control. We begin by exploring how to generate momentum by twisting through the back and shoulders while maintaining a solid "ears over shoulders over hips" alignment. By focusing on these vertical landmarks, you ensure that your center of gravity remains stable as you move through space.
This class guides you through exercises on flat and in coupé to help you feel the connection between your core and your rotation. We also delve into the technical nuances of the plié and the push-off. You will learn how to scoop the foot underneath you without pushing the hips back, a crucial movement for maintaining balance.
We also address the reality of the "funky side" versus the "comfy side," providing strategies to improve coordination on your less dominant side. Throughout the session, the instructor emphasizes the importance of timing and the use of the armpits during the landing to provide stability and grace. Whether you are working towards your first clean rotation or looking to refine your technique for more advanced work en pointe, this class provides the foundational strength and power needed for success.
Join us at Broche Ballet as we break down the mechanics of turning, helping you achieve smoother, more confident movements on the dance floor.