Turnout and Torque: Powering Your Ballet Jumps and Turns

In this specialized technical session from Broche Ballet, we dive deep into the mechanics of turnout and torque. Turnout is not just a static shape or a position of the feet; it is an active, rotational force that provides the necessary stability and power for every movement in ballet. By understanding how to generate torque from the hip joint and core, dancers can significantly improve the height of their jumps and the consistency of their pirouettes.

This class focuses on the biomechanics of rotation through a series of floor-based and seated exercises, allowing you to isolate the deep rotators without the added challenge of gravity in a standing position. We explore how to integrate both sides of the body, ensuring that your turnout is functional and balanced. While most of the practice is low-impact, we include light weight-bearing movements like bear planks to build the core stability required to hold your turnout during dynamic transitions.

Floor work is a secret weapon for many professional dancers; by removing the need to balance on one leg, you can truly focus on the sensations of the femur rotating within the acetabulum. This awareness is crucial when you return to the barre or the center. You will discover how to wrap the muscles around the bone, creating a sense of length and strength that translates directly into better arabesque lines and more controlled landings.

We emphasize the importance of proper alignment to prevent injury and maximize efficiency. Throughout the session, your instructor will guide you through modifications, especially for the light weight-bearing sections on the shoulders and wrists. This ensures that the class remains productive for dancers at various levels of strength.

By focusing on breathing and relaxation during the warm-down, you will learn to release unnecessary tension, allowing your muscles to recover and integrate the day's work. Join us to transform your technique from the ground up.