What You'll Learn
- How to identify the heel as the primary point of rotation
- The technique for spiraling the toes behind the heel during the movement
- Identifying the transition midpoint to maintain consistent turnout
- How to prevent the common mistake of leading with the toes
About This Video
Mastering the rond de jambe en dedans is a fundamental goal for any ballet student seeking to improve their technique and overall leg stability. This movement, which translates to 'circle of the leg inward,' requires a deep understanding of rotation initiated from the hip joint. In this quick tip from Broche Ballet, we dive into the specific mechanics of the foot and leg during this exercise to help you achieve a cleaner, more professional line.
One of the most common mistakes dancers make is inadvertently rotating around the toes. However, to maintain proper turnout and control, you must focus on the heel as the constant point of rotation. When executing a rond de jambe en dedans, your goal is to keep the heel pushing forward while the toes spiral around the leg.
As your leg travels through the circular arc, you will reach a critical transition point. This is the 'midpoint' where your toes must shift from being in front of your heel to traveling behind it as you move toward the back position or arabesque. This transition is vital for maintaining the integrity of the leg's line without letting the rotation 'drop' or the knee turn inward.
Maintaining this internal awareness ensures that your leg remains fully rotated throughout the entire arc of the movement. By focusing on the spiraling action of the leg, you create the long, beautiful lines that ballet is known for. Whether you are working at the barre for your daily warm-up or executing movements in the center, applying these technical details will elevate your practice and help you build stronger, more reliable muscle memory.
At Broche Ballet, we believe that small, focused adjustments lead to significant breakthroughs in your dancing journey. Join our community of dedicated dancers as we break down the complexities of ballet technique into manageable, actionable tips that you can apply to your very next class. This approach helps you dance with more confidence, fluidity, and precision, ensuring every rond de jambe is executed with grace and technical excellence.