Perfecting Your Turnout in Arabesque Fondu: Heel Alignment Mastery

Maintaining proper turnout while executing a fondu in an arabesque position is one of the most nuanced challenges in ballet training. At Broche Ballet, we believe that understanding the mechanics of the foot is the key to unlocking better rotation and more stable lines. In this focused lesson, we dive deep into the specific placement of the heel to ensure your arabesque remains turned out, even as you descend into your plié.

' While this might seem counterintuitive when the leg is behind you in an arabesque, it is a vital visualization for engaging the deep rotators of the hip. When you are in the fondu position, focusing on the inside of the heel helps maintain the necessary outward rotation. We often see dancers lose their turnout as the leg extends or as they bend the supporting knee; this lesson provides the technical how-to to prevent that collapse.

A significant portion of the class addresses the transition from a flexed foot to a pointed foot. By practicing the feeling of the heel in a flexed state, you can better understand where that rotation originates. This technique is particularly helpful for correcting a sickled foot.

When you keep the heel moving forward and down as you point, you create a long, beautiful line that extends from the hip through the tips of your toes. Whether you are practicing at the barre or in the center, these turnout tips will help you find more stability and grace. The lesson also touches on how to maintain this focus during transitions, ensuring that your turnout isn't just a static position but a dynamic action.

Even with the wind howling through the window, as seen in this lighthearted video, the focus remains on the precision of the movement. Join Broche Ballet to refine your technique and bring a new level of professional polish to your arabesque and fondu work.