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The Secret Message

Is there a secret message to make all your dancers turn like Sophia Lucia? Sorry, I don't think so. However, reminders that build muscle memory are the key to having consistently strong turners. Below are bullet points to remind your dancers of every class as to what to think of while turning. One of my favorite tactics is asking my class what they need to think about while they are turning. My dancers will raise their hands and we won't stop until all of the bullet points have been checked off.

  • High relevé
  • Straight supporting knee
  • High passé
  • Shoulders down (out)
  • Strong spot (spot your own eyeballs or a point in the room)
  • Strong arms (like holding oranges under your armpits)
  • Utilizing your closing arm
  • In second turns, turning out both your supporting leg and your working leg
  • Closing into a high, strong croisé and not swinging your leg
  • Leading with your heel and not gripping your turnout muscles
  • Not dropping your heel too hard in second turns or fouettes
  • Pulling straight up, not around
  • Engaging your center
  • Keeping your center directly over your turning foot
  • Get your power from your closing arm and your spot
  • Pulling up as you pull down to create opposition 
  • PREP IS IMPORTANT!!!
By your dancers implementing all of these reminders into their muscle memory when they go to turn, they will not need to actively think about them. Therefore, your dancers will become strong, c onfident turners in no time.

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