Ballet Turning Series: Drills for Momentum and Controlled Landings

Mastering the pirouette is a journey that requires a delicate balance between generating enough force to rotate and maintaining the control necessary for a clean finish. In this installment of the Broche Ballet Turning Series, we dive deep into specific drills designed to harmonize momentum with deliberate landings. Many dancers struggle with turns because they either hold back or lose control of their power; this session aims to fix that through structured repetition.

The class begins by exploring the concept of giving yourself force. We break down the mechanical transition from a tendu to a plié, focusing on the push needed to initiate rotation. By practicing a specific sequence of tendu, lower, plié, and push movements, you will learn how to harness your energy without sacrificing your vertical alignment or stability. This foundational work is essential for building the confidence to attempt more complex turns later in your training.

A core component of this lesson is the focus on landings. A turn is only as good as its finish, and we emphasize the importance of being deliberate about where and how you land. Whether you are aiming for a single or a double, the drill encourages you to choose a specific landing spot based on your personal tendencies. This intentionality helps bridge the gap between merely spinning and performing a true ballet pirouette. Throughout the session, you will engage in rhythmic combinations that utilize music to guide your timing, ensuring your relevé and descent are perfectly synchronized.

By repeating these drills, you will develop the muscle memory required to land gracefully, even when you have generated significant momentum. This class is designed to be both challenging and encouraging, reminding every dancer that progress comes through consistency and a willingness to experiment with their own force. Join Broche Ballet as we refine your turning technique, one deliberate landing at a time.