Understanding and Improving Turnout

We all know that turnout is an essential part of classical ballet technique.  But what, exactly, is turnout?  Turnout is a combination of rotational flexibility and the strength to properly hold that rotation, and it is measured by the angle that forms between the center lines of the feet when both heels are touching, as in first position.  Although it appears that the feet are turning out, the rotation begins in the hips so that the entire leg turns out.

A dancer’s turnout is largely determined by genetics.  There is, however, one aspect of turnout that the dancer can control:  the strength and flexibility of the muscles around the hip.  You can increase the strength and flexibility of these muscles by doing exercises.

Here are three exercises to try. All use a resistance band.

Clam Shells

• Lie on your side on a mat with a resistance band wrapped around your legs, just above the knees.

• Bend your knees about 30° with one stacked on top of the other.

• Keep your feet together throughout the exercise.

• Slowly open your knee, hold for a few seconds and slowly lower.

• Repeat 20 times and switch sides.

Retiré Rotations

• Tie a resistance band around the lower barre.

• Stand sideways, with your right leg closer to the barre, in parallel position.

• Slide the resistance band loop around your left knee.

• Go into retiré position with your left knee facing forward.

• Rotate your left knee outward into a turned-out retiré.

• Repeat ten times, then turn out your standing leg and continue for ten additional repetitions.

• Switch sides.

Resistance Rond de Jambes

• Pull a resistance band up to your mid-thighs.

• Stand in first position, either center floor or with the barre for support.

• Do ten rond de jambes en dehors and ten en dedans, concentrating on your rotation.

• Switch sides.

Working on your turnout takes dedication and practice. But, if you stick with it, you will improve your turnout.