What You'll Learn
- How to maintain rotation by connecting the heel forward during coup de pied and passé.
- Techniques for stabilizing a tiny attitude by pressing through the standing heel.
- The importance of calf engagement in creating secure and fluid leg extensions.
- Proper hip alignment and turnout maintenance during fondu and arabesque.
- Strategies for slowing down to focus on technical precision rather than height.
About This Video
Mastering the mechanics of ballet requires more than just high extensions; it requires a deep understanding of the pathway the leg takes. In this Step by Step class from Broche Ballet, we dive into the intricate details of fondu and développé to help you build a stronger, more aligned foundation for your dance practice. This 27-minute guided session focuses on the essential transition points that often go overlooked in faster-paced classes.
We begin by breaking down the coup de pied and a low 45-degree passé. The instructor emphasizes the importance of connecting the heel to the front leg during these movements, a technique that is vital for maintaining proper turnout as the leg begins to extend. By establishing this foundation early, you prevent the common mistake of losing rotation as the leg gains height.
' These smaller versions of the classical attitude position allow you to focus intensely on your hip alignment and the engagement of the calf muscle. You will learn how to press up through the standing heel to find a more secure and lifted upper leg. This grounding through the supporting side is the secret to achieving effortless-looking extensions in your arabesque and développé devant or à la seconde.
The lesson also covers the significance of keeping the inside of the heel forward when extending into an arabesque. This subtle shift in focus ensures that your rotation comes from the hip rather than just the ankle. Throughout the practice, Broche Ballet encourages you to work at your own pace.
The goal of this class is not to rush through the movements but to find precision in every transition. Whether you are a dedicated intermediate student or an adult dancer looking to refine your technique, this breakdown provides the tools necessary to execute fluid, controlled, and beautiful movements. Grab your barre and let’s begin this journey toward technical excellence.