Battement jeté, or “thrown beating” in English, is a classic ballet step that involves quick and precise movements of the feet and legs. It is a powerful leap that consists of three main steps: the preparation, the jump, and the landing. This move requires considerable strength and coordination to execute properly.
The preparation for the battement jeté begins with a strong plié (or bend) in both legs. The dancer must then draw one leg up towards the body while keeping the other leg extended straight, forming an angle of ninety degrees between them.
This step is called a battement tendu (which means “stretched beating”). After this, the dancer pushes off from their plié using all four points on their feet (heel, ball of foot, and two sides).
Once in mid-air, it is important for the dancer to maintain turnout (legs turned outwards) and keep the arms held close to the sides. The dancer should then switch feet in mid-air so that they land on their other leg first.
This switch is known as a changement (“change”). The dancer should strive to keep their legs together throughout this process in order to achieve maximum stability when landing on one foot.
Finally, after switching feet, it is important for dancers to land correctly with both feet heading in one direction and with toes pointed towards each other. It also helps if they keep their arms open wide at shoulder level as they land. This helps maintain balance while absorbing some of the shock of impact from landing on one foot.
Battement jeté is a complex ballet step that requires considerable strength and coordination to execute properly. It consists of three main steps: the preparation, jump, and landing; all of which require precise technique and form in order to achieve maximum stability when landing on one foot. With practice and dedication, dancers can master this move with grace and power.
Conclusion: Battement jeté is an essential part of every ballet dancer’s repertoire that requires skillful execution in order to be performed successfully. With practice and dedication any dancer can learn how to perform this move with grace and power.