What You'll Learn
- How to stabilize the thigh while the lower leg circles
- The anatomical secret of femur rotation in the hip socket
- Correct heel and knee placement for maximum turnout
- Techniques for transitioning from large learning movements to subtle performance
- Executing the movement with precision from second position
About This Video
In this specialized technique class from Broche Ballet, we deconstruct one of the most intricate movements in the ballet vocabulary: the rond de jambe en l'air. While it may appear to be a simple circling of the lower leg, achieving the correct form requires a sophisticated understanding of how the femur rotates within the hip socket. This lesson is designed to help you move beyond a basic knee bend and toward a fluid, professional execution.
We begin by examining the starting point of the movement, typically from second position or à la seconde. One of the most common pitfalls for dancers is allowing the thigh to move along with the lower leg. Here, you will learn how to keep the thigh completely stable while the knee folds inward.
By maintaining this stillness in the upper leg, you create the necessary isolation for a clean rond de jambe en l'air. Our instruction focuses heavily on the relationship between the knee and the heel. To achieve the correct rotation, you must press the knee back while encouraging the heel to rotate forward.
This anatomical engagement ensures that the movement comes from deep within the hip joint rather than just the hinge of the knee. We also explore the directional flow of the movement—en dehors and en dedans. If you are new to this step, we recommend starting with exaggerated, larger circles to truly feel the path of the foot before refining it into the small, subtle action required for advanced performance.
Whether you are working at the barre or in the center, mastering the rond de jambe en l'air will significantly improve your overall leg control and turnout. By combining the rotation of the femur with a precise bending of the knee, you will develop the strength and coordination needed for complex allegro and adagio combinations. Join us at Broche Ballet as we refine your technique and bring more precision to your practice.
