Q&A: Mastering Heel Placement in Ballet Tendu

The tendu is one of the most fundamental movements in ballet, yet its execution requires intricate precision to achieve that classic, long line. " In this Q&A session, we dive deep into the mechanics of the tendu to help you refine your footwork and build better habits at the barre. When executing a tendu moving away from the center, the goal is to keep your heel on the floor as long as possible.

This builds resistance and strength in the foot and ankle. However, the closing phase—bringing the foot back into first or fifth position—is where many dancers struggle with timing. The key takeaway from this lesson is to touch your heel down as soon as possible on the way in.

This ensures a stable return and maintains the integrity of your turnout. To achieve this without compromising your form, you must focus on lengthening the back of the leg. As you draw the foot in, think about pushing the heel toward the ground through a diagonal line rather than simply dropping it.

This action prevents the knee from bending prematurely, a common mistake that breaks the aesthetic line. You will learn to keep the ankle high and engage the toes first, transitioning smoothly through a high demi-pointe position before the heel makes contact. By mastering these nuances, you will improve your overall foot articulation and stability.

Whether you are working on your transitions at the barre or preparing for more complex center work, understanding the relationship between the heel and the floor is essential. Join Broche Ballet as we break down the timing and technique needed to perfect your tendu and elevate your dancing to the next level.