What You'll Learn
- How to square the hips by adjusting placement based on the working leg's direction.
- Techniques to rotate the quadriceps back while bringing the inside of the knees forward for maximum turnout.
- The relationship between pelvic stability and lower body rotation in positions like à la seconde.
- How to prevent the hip from popping out during rond de jambe transitions.
- Maintaining proper weight distribution through movements like fondu and relevé.
About This Video
Achieving the perfect balance between turnout and hip alignment is one of the most challenging aspects of ballet technique. In this 23-minute follow-along barre class from Broche Ballet, we take a deep dive into the mechanics of the pelvis and leg rotation. Whether you are struggling to keep your hips square or looking to deepen your turnout from the hips, this session provides the technical breakdown you need to progress.
The class begins with a focus on pelvic stability, teaching you how to "square off" by adjusting the working hip relative to the leg position. You will learn specific cues, such as pulling the working hip back when the leg is in front, but pushing it forward during extensions to the side or back. These subtle adjustments are crucial for maintaining a clean line and preventing the hip from popping out of alignment, especially during challenging movements like rond de jambe.
We also explore the physical sensations required to maximize rotation. By pressing the quadriceps toward the back while rotating the inside of the knees and hamstrings forward, you can find a deeper, more functional turnout. The exercises, including demi-plié, tendu, and fondu, are designed to help you find your sweet spot—that fine line where maximum rotation meets a stable, square pelvis.
Throughout the session, we practice these concepts in first, second, and fifth positions. You will use second position as a foundation to establish the feeling of rotation before applying it to the more restrictive fifth position. With detailed corrections on weight distribution and transitions like cou-de-pied and relevé, this class ensures your lower body placement remains secure.
We conclude with a cambré to integrate upper body fluidity with a grounded, aligned base. Join Broche Ballet for this technical exploration and transform your stability and grace at the barre.
