This exercise is a progression of the original attitude devant exercise with the same focus on square hips and controlled turnout. Integrating more complex port de bras and moving the foot to a demi-pointe challenges students' coordination, awareness and balance. Emphasise the importance of proper pelvis alignment and fluidity throughout the exercise.

Preparation: Start with the right foot placed on the fit ball. If the student has adequate range and stability, align the heel with the thigh. However, never force the turnout. Keep the hips square to the front and adjust the heel to the centre of the body if needed.

Steps:

1. During the fondu (plié), extend the working leg. Ensure the pelvis isn’t tucked under.

2. Remind students to exhale and articulate through the foot into a demi pointe position, encouraging long, not curled, toes. Recover with the port de bras into fourth position.

3. Repeat the fondu and recover with the opposite port de bras into fourth position.

4. Repeat the fondu and recover with the port de bras adjusting into fifth position.

5. The student lift the leg from the ball passing from devant into à la seconde, touch the ball with the fingers and reset on the alternate side. Repeat.6. The students repeat in full once they are secure.

Focus: Monitor pelvis alignment throughout the exercise. The foot should roll smoothly through the metatarsals.