Ballet Turning Drills: Enhancing Speed through Passé and Hamstring Power

Unlock the secret to faster, more powerful turns with this specialized training session from Broche Ballet. Many dancers struggle with the speed of their rotation, often looking to their upper body for momentum while neglecting the explosive power required from the legs. This class focuses on the mechanics of the hamstring kicking exercise, a vital movement that teaches you how to quickly 'scoop' the leg into a sharp passé position.

By mastering this specific engagement of the hamstring, you can significantly increase the velocity of your pirouettes and maintain better control throughout the rotation. We begin by breaking down the hamstring kick, ensuring the knee bends precisely to bring the foot into a high, secure passé. This foundation is then applied to turns from both fourth and fifth positions, where the transition from a deep plié to a vertical axis is most critical.

Beyond leg power, this lesson delves into the often-overlooked role of arm coordination. You will learn how the trailing arm must work twice as hard to catch up with the leading arm, meeting in a strong first position to create a unified center of gravity. This synchronization of the 'snap' in the leg with the closing of the arms is what allows for multiple rotations and the stability needed for advanced movements like fouettés.

Throughout the session, your instructor provides detailed feedback on body alignment, helping you understand how to stack your weight over the supporting leg for maximum efficiency. Whether you are looking to nail your first clean double pirouette or want to add more speed to your professional repertoire, these drills offer the technical roadmap to get you there. Join us at Broche Ballet as we refine your turning technique through science-backed movement and classical precision.