Mastering the Ballet Soutenu Turn: Step-by-Step Piqué Technique

Elevate your turns with this comprehensive breakdown of the soutenu in our second installment of the "Step by Step" series at Broche Ballet. Mastering the soutenu turn, particularly the piqué soutenu, requires a delicate balance of strength, timing, and momentum. In this 21-minute class, we dive deep into the mechanics that make these turns appear effortless and fluid.

We begin by breaking down the specific leg pathway required for a successful piqué soutenu. You will learn the importance of starting with a precise tendu front, followed by a controlled fondu to find your center. The transition into a rond de jambe is critical for gathering the necessary momentum to carry you through the turn.

Our instructor emphasizes the "sneak" of the leg and the precise moment to face the corner, ensuring your alignment remains stacked throughout the rotation. A major focus of this session is the role of the arms. Many dancers struggle with turns because their upper body is disconnected from their lower body.

We demonstrate how to use the arms to initiate and control momentum, helping you stay on balance and finish each turn with grace. By coordinating the arm movement with the piqué action, you will find more stability and consistency in your turns. Beyond just the individual steps, this class places the soutenu turn into the context of real ballet combinations.

You will practice alternating sides—mastering both the left and right—to ensure even development. We also touch upon the su-tenu and how it differs from the piqué variations, helping you build a versatile technical vocabulary. Whether you are practicing in a home studio or a professional space, this video provides the repetition and detailed cues necessary to refine your technique.

Join us at Broche Ballet as we demystify these essential movements, giving you the confidence to execute beautiful soutenu turns in any center exercise.