Mad Monday Elongate
A common problem many dancers have is allowing a slight bend
or relaxation in the knee of the working leg when closing a tendu. This
occurs because as the foot leaves fifth position there is an almost unnoticeable
sinking on the supporting leg, especially when there isn't enough lift from the
pelvis.
If a dancer continues to close his/her tendues with a
slightly bent knee it not only compromises the strength-building nature of the
tendu, it also sets up the probability of a knee injury due to the constant
twisting action that happens around the knee and lower leg every time the foot
closes.
When dancers first realize how much lift is required to
prevent this, they are often amazed and wonder how it is possible to do it
correctly. But it is very possible, and must be done this way for good
technical development and for injury prevention.
Think of this: As the foot moves toward closing in fifth
position, imagine both legs stretching
and elongating. This will prevent bending the knee, and will almost
automatically cause a lift from the pelvis.
From the Big Blue Book of Ballet Secrets:
Ballet Secret #4l:
“Think of lengthening the legs when closing a tendu to prevent bending the
working knee.”
Link of the Day:
Quote
of the Day:
“Talent
without discipline is like an octopus on roller skates. There's plenty of
movement, but you never know if it's going to be forward, backwards, or
sideways.”
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