This is an essential exercise for ballet training, aimed at enhancing students hip alignment awareness and the effectiveness of the supporting leg. This exercise is integral in preparing students for advanced rond de jambe en l’air movements in class, emphasising correct technique and alignment for a safe and effective practice.

Preparation: Position the student sideways on the mat, placing a ¾ inflated fusion ball under the hip for support. Ensure the students elbow is bent with the hand in line with the shoulder.

Steps:

1. Instruct the student to commence lying sideways.

2. Position the working leg in plantar flexion (stretched).

3. Lift the working leg, emphasising the sensation of moving away from the fusion ball.

4. Execute two single rond de jambe en l'air en dehors, returning the working leg derrière.

5. Repeat the movement en dedans.

6. Once stable, progress to double rond de jambe en l'air, focusing on hip alignment rather than leg height.

Focus: Stress the importance of hip alignment and the activation of the supporting adductor muscle. The height of the leg is secondary to maintaining correct alignment.