What You'll Learn
- How to execute the en cloche movement with rhythmic precision and full-speed tempo.
- Techniques for maintaining a stable torso while the leg swings through first position.
- The mechanics of the "press" and "lift" to enhance footwork strength and height.
- How to integrate turns into your barre exercises for improved coordination.
- Strategies for finding a solid "fix" and professional "finish" to every movement.
About This Video
In this focused practice session from Broche Ballet, we dive deep into the en cloche exercise, a dynamic movement essential for developing fluid footwork and strengthening the hips and core. The term "en cloche," meaning "like a bell," refers to the swinging motion of the leg as it passes through first position, moving between the front and back. While the concept may seem simple, executing it at full speed requires a high degree of technical precision, muscular control, and rhythmic awareness.
This practice video is specifically designed to help you transition from slow, deliberate movements to a performance-level tempo. We begin by focusing on the "press" through first position, ensuring that the foot maintains proper contact with the floor to create resistance and build strength. As the leg moves from front to back, the dancer must maintain a quiet upper body and a stable pelvis, avoiding any rocking motion that can disrupt balance and alignment.
" The "fix" requires a momentary hold or stabilization, teaching the body to find stillness amidst rapid movement. The "lift" then challenges the dancer to find height without sacrificing the integrity of the standing leg's alignment. We also incorporate a turn to challenge your orientation and coordination, pushing your technique to a professional standard.
By practicing at this full-speed tempo, you will develop the fast-twitch muscle response necessary for more advanced combinations and center work. At Broche Ballet, we believe that mastering these foundational movements at varying speeds is the secret to a polished aesthetic. Whether you are at the barre in a studio or practicing in your home space, this en cloche breakdown provides the structure needed to refine your technique.
Focus on the "finish" of each movement to ensure every repetition is clean, intentional, and technically sound.
