Help with my Shanay(SP) Turns for jazz class?

Question

I started a jazz dance class, and I can't do a Shanay(SP) turn. i know basically how to, (stand on you toes,spin around, and open/close your arms). but whenever i do it, it looks pathetic and almost weak, more like one of those dolls that spins on a music box. This question probably doesn't make sense and yes, i saw the other question about shanay turns but it didn't answer my question. what can i do to make my shanay turns more...real if that makes sense. Thanks.

~T

Answer 1

Always stay in your releve and spot the wall also try to make sure your muscles are tight and secure!

Answer 2

start by opening your legs into a wide second while in releve. then close them bringing your heels still in releve. (you will NEVER leave releve!) make sure you spot!(look at one stop on the wall and keep looking at the entire time you do these.) make sure you squeex ALL your muscels(calfs thighs butt tummy.)  <- that will keep your balance so you wont fall and look wobbly.

an exersize you can do to get better in slow turns.

fist pick a good song to practice to. (make sure its got a slow tempo.) and pick a song that gives you power and makes you want to do better. a great song to do these to is "dancing" by Elisa.

now find the tempo.

now count yourself off, and on count 1 step into a wide second while in releve. from here hold to counts and keep you body ferm and dont move!

no turn. while you turn bring your heels together (make sure your turned out) while in releve. hold here for 2 counts. DONT MOVE.

no turn into your second. (always in releve.)

then turn with your heels together.

hold 2 counts every time you turn.