Plies and Tendus -- In Depth Tutorials

Plies (bending of the knees) and tendus (extension of the legs) constitute the basis for most ballet movements.  Plies and tendus seem very simple, but they involve quite a bit of nuanced technique.

Plies are important because they add the "spring" to your movements, and provide stability and shock absorption while you work through combinations.  Plies also relax and stretch your muscles after contraction, promoting those long, lean, non-bulky ballet muscles.

Tendus are important because they train your legs to move with control, grace and smoothness.  They promote foot and ankle strength and flexibility, and they help you learn how to work your legs in that extended, elongated way that makes ballet dancers look so graceful.

Here are two great videos, from Athena at B+ Dance, where she gives in-depth tutorials on performing plies and tendus.  She walks through beginner, intermediate and advanced technique levels, with lots of examples showing both good and bad technique.

These are good videos to watch if you're wanting a better understanding of plie and tendu technique!