A ballet tendu is a movement in classical ballet that involves the dancer extending or stretching one leg outward, while keeping the other leg bent. The term “tendu” means “stretched” in French, and this movement is one of the most basic steps used in ballet. It helps dancers learn proper technique for other steps, and is also used to develop strength and flexibility.
The tendu position can be done either standing or sitting. When standing, the dancer will keep their feet close together and bend one knee.
The other leg will then be extended outwards with the toes pointed, heel lifted and foot rotated outward. This position can also be done while seated in a chair, with both feet firmly planted on the floor and toes pointed outwards.
To perform a tendu correctly, dancers must maintain their body alignment and lengthen their legs fully while keeping their feet together through the entire movement. The arms should be held slightly away from the body at shoulder level with the palms facing down. It is important for dancers to keep their abdominals engaged throughout this exercise to maintain proper posture and support for their spine.
The tendu can also be used as a transition step between other movements or to travel across the floor by gliding from one foot to another in a swiveling motion called a passé en tournant (turning pass). As well as being an essential part of many combinations, it can also help dancers learn how to move quickly without sacrificing proper technique or form.
In addition to its use as an exercise in classical ballet, tendus can also be found in jazz dance, modern dance, lyrical dance and hip-hop choreography. These forms typically involve more dynamic use of this step than classical ballet does; for example jazz dancers may use a grand battement (a large kick) instead of just extending out one leg from side-to-side like ballet does.
Conclusion:
A ballet tendu is an important part of any dancer’s repertoire; it helps them learn basic technique for other steps as well as providing strength and flexibility training. This movement can be done both standing or sitting with proper body alignment and arms slightly away from the body at shoulder level with palms facing down – all while keeping one leg bent while extending the other outwards with toe pointed, heel lifted and foot rotated outward. Tendus are used not only by classical ballets but by jazz dance, modern dance, lyrical dance and hip-hop choreography too.