What You'll Learn
- The proper coordination of the arms and legs during a soutenu turn.
- How to maintain active turnout and a "heel forward" position in pas de cheval.
- Techniques for executing a clean sous-sus and transitioning into a fondu.
- Strategies for reversing complex combinations to build muscle memory.
About This Video
Mastering the nuances of ballet movement requires a deep dive into the transitions between steps. In this Broche Ballet instructional video, we break down the mechanics of the full soutenu turn at the barre, focusing on the essential building blocks that create a seamless rotation. This session is designed for dancers who want to move beyond basic positions and start mastering the fluidity required for center work.
We begin with the foundational sous-sus, emphasizing a tight, controlled lift. From here, you will learn to navigate the arm movements—treating the arm as a "runway" to guide your body through the half-turn. This spatial awareness is crucial for maintaining balance as you move away from the barre.
Coordination is key, as the right foot picks up to become the new front foot, requiring precise timing and a strong core. The lesson also incorporates the pas de cheval, a step that demands both delicacy and strength. We focus on the "heel forward" action during the fondu, ensuring that your turnout is active throughout the entire extension.
By perfecting the fondu, you create the necessary "melt" that gives ballet its characteristic grace and power. One of the most valuable aspects of this tutorial is the emphasis on reversing combinations. We do not just practice the movement once; we learn how to deconstruct it to perform it from the back, closing the sous-sus and pushing off with the correct foot.
Practicing in both directions is essential for developing a symmetrical technique and improving cognitive coordination. Whether you are struggling with your weight placement or simply want to clean up your footwork, this step-by-step breakdown provides the clarity needed to execute these tricky movements with confidence. Join us at the barre and take your technique to the next level.
