How to Do the Pique in Neoclassical Ballet

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Every introductory ballet class will cover the pique. It's necessary to master this basic ballet move before attempting more complicated ones. If you're the parent of a ballet dancer or you simply want to learn ballet, learning how to perform a pique is a great start.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Pique to the Right

Step 1

Begin in fifth position with your left leg in front.
Step 2

Tendu to the right.
Step 3

Transfer your weight to your right leg while bringing up your left leg to form the letter "P."
Step 4

Place your left foot on the ground into fifth position.
Step 5

Repeat Steps 2 through 4 multiple times. Pique down the length of the room until you run out of space.

Pique to the Left

Step 1

Start in fifth position with your right leg in front.
Step 2

Transfer your weight to your left leg as you tendu to left and then bring your right leg up to form the letter "P."
Step 3

Bring your right foot back to the ground into fifth position.
Step 4

Complete Steps 2 and 3 multiple times.

Tips & Warnings

It's just as easy to perform a pique on the left and right sides because it's a simple ballet move. However, some ballet moves are more difficult on one side, usually the left. Make sure you always practice both sides of a ballet move evenly. Devote extra time to one side if you're having difficulty with that side.
Generally, piques are done as part of floor work. Warm up first at the bar before attempting any floor work. Most serious ballet students do one hour of bar work a day followed by one hour of floor work.