This exercise is designed to improve dancers' pelvis alignment and sternum opening without rib flare. It introduces young dancers to the concept of cambré, focusing on maintaining a safe posture for their lower back.

Preparation: Have two students sit opposite each other on either side of a fit ball, or place the ball against the wall for individual practice. Ensure the sacrum is close to the ball, with an elongated pelvis. They should keep their knees bent with feet flat on the floor, hip-width apart in parallel. This exercise can also be practiced with one student against the wall.

Steps:

1. Guide students to relax their body over their legs, reaching their hands towards feet.

2. Instruct them to roll through the vertebrae, straightening the spine and keeping their head erect. At the same time, they should inhale deeply and bring their hands towards their thighs.

3. Have them lie back over the curve of the fit ball, keeping shoulders even and their head turned to one side, exhaling deeply. Remind them to keep their ribs relaxed.

4. Next, they should return to an upright position, head erect, before relaxing towards their feet.

5. Repeat steps 1 to 4 with the head turned to the other side.6. Have them move their arms in a port de bras to fifth position and repeat again on both sides.

Focus: Emphasise maintaining pelvis alignment and avoiding rib flare throughout the movement.