How to get the most out of tendus

A tendu is one of the first steps you learn in a ballet class, and one of the last things you will ever get down perfect. Tendus, like plies, are the foundation for a great majority of ballet movements, and if you have a perfect tendu, you're on your way to perfect technique!

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• ballet clothes (optional)
• mirror

1. This is for tendu side. Stand in your fifth position, do not force your turnout. Make sure you are properly placed - hips and shoulders square, chin up, upper arms strong, stomach in, upper back working, butt in.

2. Opening right foot side in tendu, aim for the heel of your left (supporting) foot. Going through first position, feel your foot extending all the way until you reach a fully pointed foot and a straight knee. Your hips should still be square, and legs turned out. Your heel should not be seen if you are looking at the exact profile of yourself.

3. Closing back, aim again for the heel of your left (suupporting) foot, and keep your toes on the ground as much as you can without sacrificing placement. Once you cannot hold your foot in full pointe anymore, go through to demipointe, and then flat foot in fifth. Pull UP when closing!

Tips & Warnings

• dont forget your basic technique
• keep turning out the whole time
• pull up
• all of your weight should be on the supporting side when your working leg is fully extended in tendu
• don't sacrifice turnout for placement