In Cecchetti Grade 2, which statement about turnout is true?

• A. Turnout is required during barre movements and helps alignment.
• B. Turnout is optional.
• C. Turnout is not used in Grade 2.
• D. Turnout only applies to arms.

Answer: (A)

Turnout is a fundamental aspect of ballet technique and is expected to be present during barre work in Cecchetti Grade 2. Turnout means rotating the legs outward from the hip so the feet point toward the corners of the room. Maintaining turnout during barre helps establish correct alignment: knees stay in line with the toes, weight distributes evenly through the feet, and the line from hip to toe remains long and clean. In Grade 2, you practice turnout through every barre exercise—plies, tendus, degages, and rond de jambes—to build a stable habit that supports safety and accuracy as you progress to center work. Letting turnout collapse can lead to misalignment and knee strain, and it won’t give you the extended, polished lines Cecchetti seeks. So, turnout during barre is required and contributes to proper alignment and technique, not something optional or limited to other parts of the body.