Mastering Balance and Alignment in Piqué Soutenu Turns

The piqué soutenu turn is a beautiful, spinning movement in ballet that requires a delicate balance of momentum and control. For many adult dancers, the biggest hurdle isn't just the step itself, but the dizziness that often follows a series of turns. In this Broche Ballet quick tip, we dive into the mechanics of achieving a stable balance and how to handle the rotation with confidence.

One of the most essential aspects of a successful piqué soutenu is your orientation. Before you even begin the turn, you need a clear frame of reference. Whether you are practicing in a studio or a home space, find a visual marker—like a piece of decor or a specific spot on the wall—to guide your movement.

By looking exactly where your head and foot are as you step up into the piqué, you provide your brain with the data it needs to maintain equilibrium. A common mistake is trying to spin before the weight has fully transferred. We emphasize the move first, spin second rule.

You must take your entire body weight over your supporting foot before initiating the rotation. If you try to turn while your weight is still behind your foot, you will inevitably fall off balance. Think of it as stepping onto a stable pillar before the pillar begins to rotate.

Let’s address the dizziness: it is perfectly normal to feel a bit lightheaded after turning. If you find yourself losing focus, try a quick reset technique: place your hand between your eyes to give your vision a close-range focal point, or perform a few small jumps to help your inner ear recalibrate. Whether you are practicing in flat shoes or working toward your first pair of pointe shoes, these principles of alignment and visual tracking are universal.

Mastering the piqué soutenu turn will not only improve your center work but also build the foundational strength needed for more complex pirouettes and across-the-floor combinations.