The Switch Firebird

Grace Gerring, a former member of the 14-time National Championship–winning University of Minnesota Dance Team, shows off one of the team’s signature moves. All photos by Steve Lucas.

1)
Prep by stepping on your right leg, arms down and back slightly…

2)
…and then Step Forward on your left leg, coming into fourth position plié, arms in first position.

3)
Jump off the ground, keeping your left leg straight and bringing your right leg into parallel passé. As you take off, begin turning your body to the left.

4)
Continue Flipping your shoulders and hips to the left as you extend your right leg forward and bring your left leg behind you, bent at 90 degrees. Launch your arms diagonally behind you and arch your back.

Grace says
: “When you get in the air, think about switching your hips and shoulders and really kicking that front leg hard.”