Italian fouettés are a virtuoso step in which the dancer, usually on pointe, whips the extended working leg between front and side while rising and turning the body. They’re often done in a series and look sharp and quick. They are different from the famous 32 fouetté turns in Swan Lake.
Italian fouettés vs fouetté turns
| Italian fouettés | Fouetté turns (fouetté rond de jambe en tournant) | |
|---|---|---|
| Working leg | Stays extended, whipping between positions | Whips out to the side and into retiré each turn |
| Turn | Partial rotation of the body | Full pirouette each time |
| Look | Quick, sharp changes of direction | Continuous spinning |
Technique principles
- A strong, quick plié and relevé on the supporting leg.
- Keep the working leg extended and turned out; the hip stays down.
- Lead with a clear head and shoulder direction change.
- Stay pulled up through the core so the torso doesn’t collapse.
Building up
- Master grand battements and fondus at the barre.
- Practice the leg action slowly with a flat supporting foot.
- Add relevé on demi-pointe, then on pointe.
- Link them in series only when each one is controlled.
Terminology varies between ballet schools, so ask your teacher how your method defines and teaches this step.
Frequently asked questions
Are Italian fouettés the same as the 32 fouettés?
No. The famous 32 are fouetté turns, a continuous series of whipping pirouettes.
Are Italian fouettés done on pointe?
Usually, at an advanced level, though they are practiced on demi-pointe first.
What does fouetté mean?
“Whipped,” describing the quick whipping action of the leg.
