What You'll Learn
- Mastering port de bras coordination for more stable en dedans turns.
- The mechanics of the en dehors turn, focusing on weight transfer and drive.
- Essential spotting techniques to maintain balance and prevent dizziness.
- Building leg strength and power through a targeted turning warmup.
- Practical exercises for quarter and half turns to improve alignment and control.
About This Video
Welcome to the third installment of our Beginner Turning Series here at Broche Ballet. In this session, we transition from foundational stability to the dynamic mechanics of rotation. A successful turn in ballet isn’t just about the legs; it’s a full-body coordination effort that begins with a focused strength and power warmup.
We start by priming the core and lower body to ensure every plié and relevé is executed with the stability required for consistent turns. One of the primary focuses of this class is refining your port de bras. For en dedans (inside) turns, the coordination of the arms is vital to maintaining momentum and centering your weight.
You will learn how to use your arms not just as an aesthetic element, but as a functional tool to assist your rotation. We dive deep into the specific positioning of the hands and shoulders to prevent common mistakes, such as leaning back or losing your 'box' alignment. As we progress, we introduce the mechanics of en dehors (outside) turns.
Unlike en dedans, en dehors requires a different approach to the push and weight transfer. The instructor guides you through the process of pushing from the front foot, stretching the back leg, and finding the correct drive to propel yourself around the circle. By breaking these movements down into quarter and half turns, you can focus on the nuances of balance and avoid falling forward out of the turn.
Spotting is another critical component covered in this class. You will practice specific head motions that allow you to maintain your orientation and control during rotation. By combining proper spotting with a strong passé and precise port de bras, you will begin to feel the effortless lift that characterizes professional-level turns.
Whether you are practicing at home or in the studio, this class provides the technical corrections and encouragement needed to master these complex ballet movements.
