What You'll Learn
- How to use the moment of releasing heels to increase rotation in the legs
- Techniques for engaging the ankles forward to support turnout
- Correct knee placement and pressing back during bending movements
- Strategies to maintain consistent turnout throughout complex transitions
About This Video
Turnout is a cornerstone of classical ballet, yet many dancers struggle to maintain their rotation throughout a full class. In this Broche Ballet Quick Tidbit, we explore a transformative technique: using the moments when your heels release from the floor to actually gain more turnout, rather than losing it. Often, when we perform movements that require the heels to lift—such as in a deep grand plié or during the transition into a relevé—we tend to let our alignment slip.
This video teaches you how to turn that challenge into an opportunity for growth. By focusing on the engagement of your ankles and the placement of your knees, you can find extra degrees of rotation that were previously untapped. You will learn the specific mechanics of pressing your knees back as they begin to bend, ensuring that your turnout originates from the hips and is supported all the way down the legs.
We also dive into the importance of bringing your ankles forward. This proactive approach to turnout ensures that your legs remain energized and correctly aligned, regardless of whether your feet are flat on the floor or in a demi-pointe position. Whether you are working at the barre or in the center, these small adjustments lead to a more professional line and greater stability.
At Broche Ballet, we believe that mastering these subtle 'tidbits' of technique is what separates a good dancer from a great one. By applying these principles to every movement, you will develop the muscle memory needed for consistent, beautiful turnout. Join us as we break down the physics of the legs and show you how to maximize your rotation in every single exercise.
