What You'll Learn
- How to activate anatomical rotation starting from the hips and moving through the ankles.
- Effective 'heels up, knees down' techniques to maintain alignment in demi-pointe and cou-de-pied.
- Methods to relax the body around tension to safely deepen hip flexibility.
- The relationship between core engagement and maintaining turnout in bent-leg positions.
About This Video
Turnout is perhaps the most defining characteristic of classical ballet, yet it remains one of the most challenging aspects for dancers to master healthily. In this specialized 15-minute practice from Broche Ballet, we dive deep into the mechanics of hip opening and functional rotation. Rather than simply forcing the feet into a 180-degree line, this session emphasizes anatomical correctness, starting from the hip joint and flowing down through the shins, calves, and ankles to achieve a supported and sustainable line.
The session begins with seated exercises designed to isolate rotation. You will learn the critical "heels up, knees down" cue, which ensures that turnout is generated from the deep rotators rather than through harmful torque in the knee. By working in positions such as cou-de-pied and demi-pointe, you will gain a better understanding of how to maintain your rotation even when the legs are bent or moving through transitions. The instructor guides you through the process of rotating before bending, a fundamental principle that prevents injury and improves the aesthetic line of your plié.
A significant portion of this class is dedicated to active stretching and mindful alignment. Using your hands as a guide—not a force—you will show your body where the optimal positions are. This mindful approach allows you to identify areas of tension and consciously relax around them, which is the key to deepening your range of motion without triggering the body's protective tightening response. We also incorporate props like a belt or bathrobe tie to assist in these stretches, making the movements accessible yet challenging.
Whether you are working on your rotation for center work or looking to improve your stability at the barre, these turnout exercises provide the strength and flexibility needed for advanced ballet technique. By the end of this practice, you will have a clearer mental and physical map of your turnout, allowing for a more open, supported, and beautiful dance posture.
