What You'll Learn
- How the femur rotates in the hip socket to create the circular movement.
- Techniques for isolating the lower leg while keeping the thigh stable.
- The importance of direction and using exaggerated circles to build muscle memory.
- How to refine the movement from a large circle to a precise, small action.
About This Video
Unlock the secrets of a graceful and technically sound rond de jambe en l'air with Broche Ballet. This specific movement is a staple of intermediate ballet training, requiring a sophisticated blend of stability and mobility. In this video, we break down the mechanics of circling the leg while it is held in the air, typically beginning from a side or second position.
One of the most common misconceptions in ballet is that the knee itself can circle. Anatomically, the knee is a hinge joint, meaning it only moves in one direction. To create the beautiful circular motion of a rond de jambe en l'air, a dancer must utilize the rotation of the femur within the hip socket.
This tutorial emphasizes how to keep the thigh perfectly still while the lower leg performs the action. By pressing the knee back and leading with the heel, you create the illusion of a circle while maintaining the integrity of your turnout. We recommend starting your practice with exaggerated movements.
By making the circle larger than life, you can better visualize the path of the toe—moving from the back to the front for an outward motion. This big practice helps build the muscle memory and neurological pathways necessary for the more refined, smaller circles required in professional choreography. Once the coordination of the hip and knee is established, we guide you on how to minimize the movement to its proper, subtle form.
Consistency at the barre is essential for mastering this step. As you work through these exercises, focus on the placement of your standing leg and the height of your working thigh. With the expert guidance from Broche Ballet, you will learn to execute this movement with precision, improving your overall technique for adagio and grand allegro combinations.
Whether you are a dedicated student or returning to dance as an adult, these technical insights will provide a solid foundation for your ballet journey.
