What You'll Learn
- How to properly 'plug' the knee into the hip during the transition from à la seconde to passé.
- Techniques to prevent hopping by aligning the head directly over the supporting foot.
- The role of arm placement and first position in stabilizing high-speed rotations.
- Specific drills for maintaining a stable axis through multiple repetitions of fouetté turns.
- Improving precision in the 'sit' or plié to power the subsequent relevé and turn.
About This Video
Mastering the fouetté turn is a significant milestone in any dancer's journey. In this specialized class from Broche Ballet, we move beyond basic rotations to focus on the intricate mechanics required for consistent, powerful turns. Fouetté Turns Class #2 is designed to help intermediate and advanced dancers break down the "whipping" action and find greater stability in their center.
This session is part of our "Focus on Turns" series, prioritizing technical precision over momentum. Throughout this 20-minute practice session, you will explore the relationship between the working leg and the supporting hip. A common struggle for dancers is the feeling of "falling backward" or losing control as the repetitions increase.
Our instructor addresses this by emphasizing proper alignment and the engagement of the core. You will practice specific drills that focus on the transition from the à la seconde position into the passé, ensuring that the knee "plugs" into the hip rather than allowing the weight to shift forward or the hip to hike. This deep connection is vital for maintaining your axis during the turn.
This class isn't just about the turn itself; it’s about the preparation and the recovery. We incorporate exercises involving plié (often referred to as the "sit" in this class to emphasize depth and grounding), tendu, and extensions to build the functional strength necessary for multiple rotations. You will learn how to use your arms in first position to create a solid frame, keeping the shoulders and chest open to facilitate better spotting and balance.
We also touch upon chaînés and devant alignment to ensure your body remains square and over the legs. By identifying why hops occur—usually an indicator of a misaligned head or foot—you can make the micro-adjustments needed to stay centered on your leg. Consistency in ballet comes from understanding these small technical details.
Join Broche Ballet for this focused session and transform your approach to one of ballet’s most iconic steps through mindful practice and expert guidance.