Want to help your students develop stronger, more beautiful rond de jambe? There's one common mistake that might be undermining their progress – and it starts with a misunderstanding about the center line.
The Foundation Rond de jambe is more than just a beautiful movement; it's a fundamental building block of ballet technique. Each rond de jambe begins with a precise tendu along the center line, maintains turnout through à la seconde, and returns with control to center (although from the opposite place than where it started). This progression creates both the aesthetic and technical foundation for countless other steps.
The Common Mistake Many well-intentioned teachers have students pass through fifth position during rond de jambe, aiming to ensure proper placement. While the goal of maintaining correct placement is admirable, this approach actually creates unexpected problems.
The Technical Impact When students pass through fifth position, the movement becomes unnecessarily clunky, disrupting the natural flow of the exercise. More importantly, this modification allows students to maintain their toe on the center line without fully engaging their turnout – missing a crucial strengthening opportunity.
The Correct Approach When students pass through first position and tendu along the center line, they must engage their maximum turnout to maintain proper placement. This small but crucial adjustment transforms rond de jambe from a mechanical exercise into an opportunity for real technical development, creating both strength and beauty.
Ready to dive deeper into the technical foundations of line? My book "Artistry Inside Ballet Technique (Volume 1)" includes five comprehensive chapters devoted to understanding and teaching line, including detailed exploration of the center line concept. Discover how this fundamental principle impacts everything from basic technique to advanced movements. Get your copy here.
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