This is an advanced exercise that should be executed towards the end of the PCT practice before moving on to your contemporary class. Whilst continuing to develop upper body strength it also encourages the student to articulate and move their torso which is essential these days in any kind of dance. It also helps to develop a high standard of coordination and musicality. It also encourages a sense of elasticity and breath in the upper body.

At the start of the exercise use the resistance of the band to create the tension and then allow the release to navigate the upper body. Always remind the students to keep their shoulders down and engaged in the pelvic floor. Take care with the alignment of the knees. As usual they should be directly over the toes. The feet should be in a neutral position. Take care that they do not over turnout. The leg extension is not about the height of the leg but making a long diagonal connection through the body between the extend arm and raised leg.

During the circled leg raises once again stress the importance that the height of the leg is not the goal. We are encouraging the student to give weight into the band. We’re wanting to establish a connection between the arms and legs whilst engaging the torso. This is an advanced step and requires a lot of stability from the supporting leg. As the student progresses in strength you can encourage them to release their neck and start to engage the use of their head. Depending on the standard of the student the turn can be added in time.