This exercise is designed to build the foundation necessary for executing a cabriole ouverte derrière, where achieving a 5th position in the air at 45 degrees and eventually at 90 degrees is crucial. A common challenge in the classroom is the lack of muscle activation or power in the students to engage the underneath leg for the beating action required. This exercise focuses on developing the strength, coordination, and power needed for the cabriole movement.

Preparation: Position students with the fusion ball underneath their hips and their elbows relaxed on the mat in front of their body. Legs should be crossed with feet in 5th position resting on the mat.

Steps:

1. On the introduction, instruct students to raise the working leg to 45 degrees.

2. Guide students through executing 3 Cabriole derrière, emphasising the importance of the underneath leg being the dominant leg moving with energy to beat the top leg.

3. Guide students to follow with a changement battu (royale).

4. Instruct students to repeat this series 4 times.

Focus: Stress the importance of maintaining correct alignment throughout the exercise, especially ensuring the hips stay level and the top leg reaches the correct height.