A jump is an element in ballet that involves a dancer taking off from the ground and suspending themselves in the air for a period of time. It is one of the most impressive and technically difficult elements of classical ballet technique. There are many different types of jumps, each involving different levels of skill and athleticism.
The simplest type of jump is called a pas de chat, which means “cat step” in French. This jump involves the dancer taking off from the ground and landing on one leg, while the other leg is extended horizontally in midair.
This type of jump is often used as a preliminary step to more difficult jumps. Other simple jumps include the entrechat quatre, in which the dancer takes off with both feet, alternately crossing them in midair, and then lands on both feet; and the assemblé, which involves a single leap from one foot to another.
More advanced jumps include grand jetés, or big leaps, where both legs are extended horizontally forward or backward as the dancer takes off from one foot. The grand jeté en tournant, or turning grand jeté, involves executing multiple rotations while in midair. Other difficult jumps include tours en l’air, where the dancer executes multiple rotations while airborne; and cabrioles, where they take off from one foot while extending their other leg high above their head.
Whatever type of jump a dancer performs, it requires strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. Jumping correctly requires proper technique as well as strength and practice; incorrect technique can lead to injury.
Conclusion:
In ballet terminology, any move that involves taking off from the ground and suspending oneself in midair is referred to as a ‘jump’. Different types of jumps involve different levels of skill and athleticism – from simple pas de chat to more advanced grand jetés – all requiring strength, flexibility, balance, coordination and proper technique for an effective performance.