What Are Jumps in Ballet Called?

Ballet

Jumps in ballet are a type of movement in which the dancer jumps off the ground, using both feet. They are one of the most impressive and eye-catching elements of classical ballet.

Jumps can be performed as part of a solo performance or as part of a larger ensemble piece. The dancer must use correct technique to execute jumps safely and with grace.

Jumps are usually divided into two main categories: large jumps and small jumps. Large jumps are typically performed with both legs taking off from the floor at the same time, and include such movements as grand jetes, assembles, cabrioles, tour en l’air and entrechats. Small jumps involve one foot leaving the floor at a time, and include pas de chat, saut de basque and sissonnes.

Grand Jeté is one of the most iconic jumps in ballet. It is also known as ‘the split jump’ because it involves both legs being extended outward while in mid-air. The dancer takes off from one foot on pointe or demi-pointe (half-pointe), then extends their arms back while they jump forward into a split position.

Assemblé is another popular large jump used in ballet. It is often described as ‘jumping on two feet’ because it involves two feet leaving the floor simultaneously before assembling together again in mid-air. The dancer will usually take off from fifth position (heels together) before extending their legs into a split position.

Cabriole, also known as ‘the scissor jump’, is an impressive feat of strength and agility. The dancer takes off from either pointe or demi-pointe before extending their legs outward to form an X shape in mid-air before landing.

Tour en l’Air, or ‘turn in the air’, is another large jump that requires great control and coordination to execute correctly. The dancer will take off from one leg while making three revolutions in mid-air before landing on both feet.

Entrechat, which means ‘to interweave’ in French, is a type of small jump that involves alternating between crossing one foot over the other while jumping repeatedly up into the air.

Pas de Chat, or ‘cat step’, is another small jump that requires quick changes between positions such as fifth position (heels together), fourth position (one foot slightly ahead), second position (feet apart) and first position (feet together).

Saut de Basque, also known as ‘basque leap’, is another popular small jump where the dancer takes off from fourth position (one foot slightly ahead) before leaping onto both feet again.

Sissonne, which means ‘little hop’ in French, is a type of small jump where the dancer takes off from fifth position (heels together) before landing again on both feet after bending their knees slightly during takeoff.

Conclusion – What Are Jumps In Ballet Called?

Jumps in ballet are divided into two main categories: large jumps and small jumps. Large jumps include grand jetes, assembles, cabrioles, tour en l’air and entrechats while small jumps include pas de chat, saut de basque and sissonnes.