This exercise focuses on the coupé brisé derrière, aimed at correcting a common fault where dancers mistakenly collapse the first leg to initiate the beat, rather than driving the underneath leg towards the top leg, as in the action in a cabriole derrière. It is designed to enhance muscle activation and precision in this technique, vital for advancing in ballet training.

Preparation: Start with the dancer against the wall, a fit ball placed in front. They should enter a grand plié in second position, then gently roll forward onto the ball.

Steps:

1. After rolling the ball back, have the dancer rest their feet against the wall, aligning with the hips.

2. They position the right foot in sur le cou-de-pied derrière, with the left foot pressing fully against the wall in fondu.

3. With hands placed forward on the floor, ensure they align under the shoulders as the body propels off the wall, keeping elbows slightly bent and gaze towards the floor.

4. They perform three coupé brisés, propelling from the wall and focusing on lowering through the metatarsals before executing a petit jeté Battu.

5. Students then switch sides and repeat, concluding the exercise by relaxing over the ball.

Focus: Emphasise maintaining a straight back and aligned posture throughout, ensuring the propulsion is driven by leg strength and technique.