Ballet Term Changement De Pieds Jacklyn Dougherty
Ballet Term: Changement de Pieds
with Jacklyn Dougherty
Changement de pieds (often shortened to changement) is a classical ballet jump from the petit allegro family. The word changement is French for “change,” and in ballet it refers to a jump in which the dancer changes feet in the air, switching from one foot front to the other while landing back in fifth position.
This step is fundamental in both beginner and advanced ballet training, appearing in barre, center practice, and allegro combinations across Vaganova, Cecchetti, and French methods.
Definition
Changement de pieds is a vertical jump from fifth position, where the feet exchange positions in the air and return to fifth position on landing.
- Start: Fifth position (right foot front or left foot front)
- Action: Jump straight up, switching feet midair
- Finish: Fifth position with the opposite foot front
Why Changement Is Important
Changements develop:
- Strong footwork
- Clean fifth position
- Fast articulation of the legs
- Musical timing
- Proper jump mechanics
Because the movement is simple in appearance, it demands excellent technique, control, and placement. Teachers often use changements to assess a dancer’s alignment and coordination.
How to Do a Proper Changement de Pieds
1. Starting Position
Begin in a tight fifth position, heels pressed together, toes turned out naturally. Engage the core and lengthen through the spine.
Arms are typically in bras bas or first position, depending on the exercise.
2. Plié
Bend into a deep but controlled plié, keeping:
- Knees tracking over toes
- Heels grounded
- Weight evenly distributed
The plié is essential—it provides the power for the jump.
3. Jump (Sauté)
Push strongly through the floor, extending:
- Ankles
- Knees
- Legs
As you rise into the air, quickly change the feet, bringing the back foot to the front and the front foot to the back.
The jump should be straight up, not traveling forward or backward.
4. Landing
Land softly through:
- Toes
- Ball of the foot
- Heel
Return immediately to fifth position plié with the opposite foot front. Maintain turnout and control on the descent.
Key Technique Tips
- Keep the jump small and fast, not high and loose
- Maintain strong turnout from the hips, not the knees
- Think “up, switch, land” in one smooth motion
- Avoid separating the feet too wide in the air
- Keep the upper body calm and lifted
Common Mistakes
- Losing fifth position on landing
- Traveling instead of jumping vertically
- Not fully changing the feet
- Over-jumping and losing control
- Dropping the heels too quickly
Where You’ll See Changement
Changements appear in:
- Petite allegro combinations
- Ballet class warm-ups
- Classical variations
- Character and corps de ballet work
They are often performed in series, helping dancers build stamina and rhythmic precision.
Learning with Jacklyn Dougherty
For clear, visual demonstrations of changement de pieds and hundreds of other ballet steps, visit Jacklyn Dougherty’s YouTube channel, where classical ballet terms are shown cleanly and professionally for dancers of all levels:
👉 https://www.youtube.com/@JacklynDougherty
Her tutorials are especially helpful for understanding foot placement, timing, and correct classical form—perfect for students, teachers, and parents.
In Summary
Changement de pieds may look simple, but it is a cornerstone of classical ballet technique. Mastering this step builds the foundation for faster allegro work and cleaner jumps throughout a dancer’s training.
Much Love
Jacklyn Dougherty and Dr. Joni Dougherty Ed.D
