This exercise helps students use both sides of their body equally in ballet. It uses resistance bands to develop muscle memory and enhance body awareness. Over time, this exercise will help students automatically perform balanced movements without focusing on it.

Preparation: Use a 3-meter (10ft) resistance band. Find the band's centre and wrap it around the student's waist. Cross the band in the front for firmness. Wrap the upper thigh en dehors (outwards) twice, ensuring it is secure.

Steps:

1. Begin in 5th position at the barre.

2. Encourage controlled breathing and head alignment at the start.

3. Instruct students to execute a développé en croix with coordinated port de bras.

4. Progress to retiré passé en fondu into à la seconde. Ensure the head and eye line follow the arm with palms upwards.

5. Draw the feet into 5th on demi-pointe, turn, and lower into 5th position.

6. Repeat on the opposite side, maintaining alignment and control.

Focus: Stress the importance of maintaining balanced posture and engagement of both sides of the body throughout the exercise.