Spotting is single handedly one of the most important elements in any kind of turn. Whether it be pirouettes, fouettes, Italian fouettes, piques or chaines, spotting is a major key when it comes turns of almost every genre. However, sometimes the concept of spotting and the process of developing strong spotting skills is something that can be a little tricky to grasp. That’s why in today’s blog post, we are talking all things spotting, spotting technique and ways you can improve your spotting skills. So, without further ado, welcome to “Spotting 101″
“What Is The True Concept of Spotting and What Is Its Purpose?”
Spotting is the action of focusing on something in front of you at eye level and as you turn, once you lose sight of your point of focus, you quickly whip your head around to find your point of focus again. Spotting and developing a strong ability to do so, is ultimately what allows you to do multiple turns such as double, triple and quad pirouettes. It also keeps you from becoming dizzy and/or nauseous once the turn is over. So, in short, spotting is really the security blanket for any type of turn. It keeps you focused, grounded and physically stable.
“A Sure Method To Gain/Strengthen Spotting Skills”
There are many different theories as to what will improve and/or strengthen a dancer’s spotting ability. However, there is one method in particular that has been a tried and true method of improvement for decades.
Stand up tall and find a spot on the wall in front of you to focus on. Make sure to pick a focus point that is directly eye level, not an inch above or below. Now, staying in one place, walk yourself around in a tight circle while keeping your eyes on the spot of the wall that you picked.
Keep your eyes on that spot for as long as you can as you turn your circle and once you begin to lose sight of your spot, quickly whip your head around to find it again. Do this about 4 times back to back. This is a method I absolutely love! I use this in all of my classes and it works like a charm.
“What Is The Perfect Method of Practice To Improve Spotting Skills?”
The perfect way to practice your spotting is by doing single turns at a slow pace. This could be a single pirouette, a single fouette or a single chaine, whichever turn you prefer. By doing only one turn at a time, you will be able to focus on the area that you want to improve which in this case, is your spotting ability. It may seem like a rather slow method of practice but don’t rush the process, take it little by little and once you’ve gotten the hang of it with one turn, begin to add on another turn and then another and another. Before you know it, your progress will grow and you’ll have the hang of it in no time!
I wish you all the best of luck as you continue to grow and improve in your dance journey! Happy weekend to you all and I’ll see you right back here next Friday for another From the Top blog post!
Keep Dancing!
-Lexi
FROM THE TOP! 