This exercise focuses on enhancing the students' control and use of their metatarsals while maintaining proper ankle alignment sur la pointe. This exercise strengthens the feet, improves balance, and refines the elegance of movement in ballet positions.

Preparation:

Begin with students standing in preparatory position. Have students coordinate their breath with the start of the movement.

Steps:

1. Have students start with an echappé relevé to the fourth position, incorporating port de bras to the fourth.

2. Follow with a demi plié in the fourth position, transition to relevé, and close back into the fifth position with a demi plié.

3. Have students perform the sequence again, moving to the second position with port de bras to the second.

4. Execute the movement to the fourth position derrière, transitioning into an arabesque line.

5. In the second position, guide students to progress from a demi plié into a sou-sous sur la pointe in devant, leading into two battement glissé sur la pointe in devant, then à la seconde, alternating the closing in devant and derrière, and finally in derrière.

6. Conclude with a retiré passé and lower with control through the metatarsals.

7. Instruct the students to repeat the sequence on the alternate side.

Focus:

Ensure students maintain their ankle alignment and utilise their metatarsals throughout the exercise. Encourage precision in the transition between positions.