What You'll Learn
- How to use strong, fast toes to propel yourself into a stable relevé
- Techniques to 'buckle in' using armpit muscles for a secure takeoff frame
- The relationship between toe activation and hand timing during a pirouette
- Why focusing on the path of the knee is more important than the final landing
- How to maintain a 'fastened seatbelt' feeling in the upper body to prevent wobbling
About This Video
Mastering the en dehors pirouette is often a journey of focusing on the finish, but the secret to a successful turn lies almost entirely in the preparation and takeoff. In this 35-minute turning drill session with Broche Ballet, we shift the focus away from the landing and toward the mechanical efficiency of the start. By refining the moment your foot leaves the floor, you create the momentum and stability necessary for multiple rotations and a controlled finish.
One of the primary focuses of this class is the role of the toes. Often overlooked, strong and fast toes are essential for propelling the body from a deep plié into a secure relevé. We explore how thinking about the movement of your toes can actually help your hands arrive at the correct position at the precise moment they are needed. This synchronization of the upper and lower body is what creates that 'light' feeling in a pirouette. We also introduce the concept of the flic-flac as a supplemental movement to reinforce the footwork required for sharp, clean turns.
Stability in a turn requires more than just leg strength; it requires a 'buckled-in' core and upper body. You will learn how to engage the armpit muscles—metaphorically fastening your seatbelt—to ensure your frame remains solid as you rotate. This prevents the common mistake of the arms lagging behind or overshooting the center line, which frequently leads to falling off balance.
Rather than worrying about whether you land perfectly in a clean fourth or fifth position every time, this practice encourages you to focus on the path of the knee. If the knee follows the correct arc, the turn will inherently be more successful. This mindset shift allows dancers to experiment with their center of gravity and power without the fear of a 'failed' landing. Join us at Broche Ballet to refine your technique, build toe strength, and find new confidence in your turns.
