Penché
An effective Penché requires excellent hamstring mobility, but also very good eccentric control. In many cases, the performer may have the mobility in the supporting leg when unloaded but struggles to control the descent into the Penché, resulting in an ungainly collapse at end of range. Alternatively, some performers can lower themselves into range but are unable to bring themselves back to standing or maintain turnout control of the supporting leg.
Assessing Penché
The required performance of the aesthetics of a Penché is different between Rhythmic Gymnastics and Classical Ballet, however many of the principles are the same. Film the performer performing a Penché at the barre as well as unsupported in the centre to fully assess their mastery of the skill. Take special note of the head, neck and shoulder position throughout the movement, as well as any lapses in deep core control. Supporting leg foot control must be maintained, whether working in turnout or parallel. Take care not to sink back into hyperextension, or lose dynamic control of the hip. A smooth transition into range and back to the starting position is extremely important. Try not to let performers get away with an alternative exit.
Watch Points
- Neck hyperextending
- Shoulders raised
- Loss of abdominal control
- Low back hyperextended
- Entire spine straight (bracing)
- Sinking into supporting hip
- Anterior hip impingement
- Hyperextension of supporting knee
- Internal rotation of the supporting leg
- Uncontrolled placement of lifted leg
- Pelvis facing directly sideways
- Hyper extending elbows (if hands touching the floor or support)
Ideal Position
- Deep neck flexor control to maintain a beautiful neckline
- Shoulders open and relaxed
- Ability to use own balance rather than relying on external support
- Even extension and rotation throughout the spine
- Controlled forward tilt of the pelvis on the supporting leg
- Ability to reverse the movement from anywhere within range
- Pulled up but not hyperextended supporting knee
- Maintain turnout control of the supporting leg
- Aim for a full flat split, rather than sinking backward on the supporting leg
- Maintain position of the head of the femur in the socket of the lifted leg
- Avoid using momentum to move in or out of the position
Example #1
Watch the initial part of the video and then pause it as you note down the things she does well, as well as those that need some work. Think of any additional test you could do to qualify any proposed issues, as well as suggestions of mobilisation techniques or exercises that may help the individual improve.
Example #2
Watch the initial part of the video and then pause it as you note down the things she does well, as well as those that need some work. Think of any additional test you could do to qualify any proposed issues, as well as suggestions of mobilisation techniques or exercises that may help the individual improve.
Example #2
Watch the initial part of the video and then pause it as you note down the things she does well, as well as those that need some work. Think of any additional test you could do to qualify any proposed issues, as well as suggestions of mobilisation techniques or exercises that may help the individual improve.
Film the performer performing a Penché on both sides, and both using support and in the center. Watch the footage with them to establish any elements that need attention. Jot down ideas of the most important elements to focus on, and any ideas of exercises that come to mind.