Grand Battement

A grand battement translates to “large beat” or “large battement.” It is the big version of the battement family: the dancer throws the working leg high into the air from the hip and then brings it back down with control, usually closing in fifth position. You will see grand battements to the front, the side, and the back, and they are a standard part of barre work in almost every class.

How It Is Done

The key to a good grand battement is keeping both legs straight and strong. The working leg brushes along the floor first, then lifts as high as it can without the dancer collapsing or leaning. The supporting leg stays pulled up and steady, and the upper body stays still and tall. The leg is thrown up energetically but lowered smoothly, not dropped. Turnout is held in both legs throughout.

Why It Matters

Grand battement builds the strength, flexibility, and control that dancers need for high extensions and for big jumps later on. Because the leg travels through so much space, it teaches the body how to move a leg powerfully while keeping the rest of the body quiet and balanced. Many teachers place grand battements near the end of barre, once the muscles are fully warm, so dancers can safely work on height. For young dancers, this is one of the exercises where you can slowly watch your leg get higher over months of practice.