How to Perform a Piqué with a Rond de Jambe with Fluidity

Mastering the coordination of a piqué with a rond de jambe is a pivotal step for intermediate ballet dancers looking to add grace and fluidity to their barre work. Often, students struggle with a segmented approach—lifting the leg, then moving it—which disrupts the natural flow of the movement. In this Broche Ballet Quicktip, we break down the mechanics of creating a seamless transition that transforms separate positions into one continuous, beautiful arc.

The secret to a successful piqué with a rond de jambe lies in the timing and the trajectory of the working leg. Instead of focusing on reaching the full height of the piqué exactly at the front, side, or back positions, you should aim for the highest point of the arc to occur halfway between these points. For example, as you move from devant to à la seconde, the peak of your piqué motion should happen at the diagonal. This ensures that the leg is already traveling toward the next position as it reaches its maximum height, preventing a 'stuck' or mechanical look.

This principle applies whether you are performing the movement en dehors or en dedans. When working from the back to the side, maintaining that even arc is crucial for stability and alignment. Avoiding the common pitfall of 'up and then move' will significantly improve your control and the overall aesthetic of your rond de jambe. By integrating these small technical adjustments, you can achieve a much smoother and more synchronized movement pattern that will serve as a foundation for more complex allegro and center work. Join us at Broche Ballet as we refine these essential details to help you dance with more confidence and precision.