Ballet Term
Cloche
En Cloche is a common ballet term that describes when a dancers goes back and forth between battement, passing through first position. En Cloch has a literal translation of “like a bell,” which is why this movement is referred to as en cloch.
En cloche describes a swinging battement that passes back and forth through first position, like the swing of a bell. The French word cloche means bell, which is exactly the picture to hold in your mind. The working leg brushes forward and then back through the standing leg in a continuous, rhythmic motion.
How it is performed
Standing on one leg, the dancer swings the working leg forward to the front (battement devant) and then straight back to the rear (battement derrière), passing through or close to first position each time. The swing is smooth and even, powered from the hip while the upper body stays lifted and calm. The foot stays pointed and the leg stays turned out through the whole arc.
What it trains
Battements en cloche build a free, mobile hip joint, strong control of the leg, and a sense of rhythm and momentum. Because the leg keeps moving, dancers learn to keep the supporting side steady and quiet while the working leg swings.
Tips for beginners
Keep the swing controlled rather than throwing the leg. Let the height grow over time instead of forcing it. Make sure the standing leg stays pulled up and the hips stay square, so the movement stays in the leg and does not rock the whole body.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
What does en cloche mean?
It means like a bell, describing a battement that swings the working leg forward and back through first position in a continuous motion.
What is battement en cloche good for?
It develops hip mobility, leg control, and rhythm while teaching dancers to keep the supporting side steady.