This exercise is designed to enhance students' ability to maintain rib and spine alignment during développé à la seconde. It improves awareness of the rib cage position, crucial for maintaining a balanced and controlled extension, especially as they strive for greater height.

Preparation: Students should lie sideways on a mat with a half-inflated fusion ball under their rib cage and another fusion ball at the side of their head. Their feet should be in fifth position.

Steps:

1. Students slowly unfold into a développé à la seconde, then enveloppé back to fifth position.

2. Repeat four times on each side.

Focus: Stress the importance of elevating the rib cage away from the fusion ball as the working leg extends. Remind them to breathe in sync with the music.