12/08/2026
Rond de jambe trains the circular motion of the working leg while stabilising the pelvis and maintaining turnout from the hip. At the barre, the aim isn’t simply to “draw a circle,” but to pass through each position with clarity and control, keeping the hips square and both legs fully engaged.
We articulate through devant, à la seconde, and derrière, constantly refining weight placement over the supporting leg while the working leg stays lengthened and alive. The movement should flow cleanly through first position each time, without any collapse in turnout or loss of energy.
🧠 Things to focus on during this exercise:
- Initiate the circular pathway from the hip rather than the lower leg
- Maintain turnout dynamically through the movement, not just in static positions
-Transition cleanly through each position, especially first and second as the leg traces its semi-circle
-Coordinate the circular action of the leg with a stable spine and pelvis, allowing for fluid and elegant movement
This coordination directly prepares us for centre work, for example movements such as renversé, which combines a circular leg action with an upper body spiral, and pas de basque, which uses a similar floor pathway to help us change direction. Even fouetté turns rely on a rond de jambe pathway to generate rotation and momentum. As you progress into Intermediate repertoire, you’ll notice just how often this fundamental pattern appears.
This exercise at the barre also develops proprioception and dynamic stability, teaching us how to keep one part of the body grounded while another moves freely through space. Without this ability, many centre movements can feel disconnected or unstable. We learn to separate the moving leg from a steady torso, an essential skill for travelling phrases and turns.
📸 edit and slides by S H A R O N