This exercise aims to improve students footwork in tendu en croix starting from the 1st position. By using a resistance band this exercise aids in developing proprioceptive awareness, ensuring active engagement of both legs, correct hip alignment, and the avoidance of ankle pronation.

Preparation: Using a resistance band that is 3m (10 ft) in length, students sit down and place the band across their thighs, ensuring it is centred. Siting to one side, wrap the band around the top of the thighs in an outward direction allowing each wrap to slightly overlap. The wrapping process is repeated for the other leg, the student stands up holding both sides of the band.

Steps:

1. Students start at the ballet barre with the band placed over, wider than their body span.

2. Position the hands on the band.

3. They extend their foot forward (battement tendu devant) then to à la seconde and finally, back to derrière.

4. They perform an elevé (rise) with equal toe pressure, and lower.

5. Steps are then repeated on the alternate leg.

Focus: Pay attention to the students hip alignment and stability in your ankles.