Which statement best describes the role of turnout in Cecchetti Grade 5 leaps?

• A. Turnout has no effect on balance.
• B. Turnout only affects the legs.
• C. Turnout should be forced to the maximum to gain height.
• D. Turnout, when coordinated with the torso, improves balance and line.

Answer: (D)

Turnout in Cecchetti leaps is about rotating the legs from the hips and using that rotation in harmony with the torso. When you turn out from the hips and keep the chest lifted and the pelvis stable, your weight sits more directly over the supporting foot, helping you maintain a tall, long line from toe to head. This alignment makes balance easier in the air and on Landing, and supports a clean, extended shape through the leap. Height comes from controlled takeoff mechanics and proper alignment, not from forcing turnout. Forcing maximum turnout can cause tension and misalignment, which hurts balance. So turnout coordinated with the torso creates better balance and line.