UGH. The dreaded Calypso. These are by far one of my favorite dance steps to watch executed (if done properly) but teaching this is a struggle. Currently, I have a very diverse group of students in regards to ability. I have some (about 1 or 2) that can execute a Calypso nearly perfect, and their heads hit their feet. I have some who can get the jump, but when it comes to arching they completely lose it. And I have others who cannot even get the jump.

I have them practice differently for each ability. They all warm up with leg swings at the barre to open up their hip flexors etc. I have them then face the barre and add an arch to their leg swings (these follow our typical warm-up so backs are already warm. From there, they practice doing turning jete's (chainee, plie, jete). I have also had them sit in the proper position on the floor and practice arching to their foot.

What else do you recommend for getting all of my students to get these beautiful leaps?

See here. www.dance.net . . .