rond de jambe

Rond de Jambe is a step translating to “round of the leg” or “circular movements of the leg”*. Rond de jambe is very true to its name, with the foot circling the floor (par terre) or in the air (en l'air). Rond de jambes can be done in many different variations, because not only are they done on and off the floor, often having their own dedicated combinations at barre, but they can be done en dehors or en dedans (the foot circling in either an outward or inward direction). There’s even grand rond de jambe, where the leg stays high as it travels through the devant (front), à la seconde (side), and arabesque (back) positions.

Although there are many variations to a rond de jambe, one consistent element of this step is the supporting leg, which acts as an anchor and allows the working leg to move freely. Securing the supporting leg is crucial for correct technique and placement of a rond de jambe. Because the working leg moves in a circular pathway, it’s important to stabilize the hips and make sure they are staying level and square as the leg travels around. Keeping the hips from shifting is equally important in ronde de jambe en l’air. The supporting leg should not move all around or get pulled into different directions as the working leg travels around; it should stay just as rotated and pulled up as it would be in a stationary first or fifth position. The working leg for a rond de jambe uses all the placement and technique that applies to tendus. It’s also important to maintain turnout and engagement while brushing through first on rond de jambes par terre.

Each type of rond de jambe is important not only for working on holding correct placement and focusing on turnout, but also for building a strong foundation for many center steps including turns, fouettes, and renverser!

Have a wonderful Technique Thursday!

*translation source: ballethub.com