Demi Plié The plié is defined as a bend of the knee and the dancers did a demi plié which is a small bend of the knee. the legs must be well turned out from the hips, the knees open and well over the toes, and the weight of the body evenly distributed on both feet, with the whole foot grasping the floor. Demi plié is done in five positions. At the beginning of the barre, demi-plies accomplish much for the dancer. Pliés begin to warm up the joints of the feet, ankles, knees and hips, assist in the development of flexibility of the muscles in the lower body and bring an awareness of the turn-out in the hip sockets. The alignment, balance and control of demi pliés are the strengthening foundations for the look and carriage of the ballet dancer.

People who are naturally endowed with a talent for dance have a very pliant Achilles’ tendon, and the leg easily forms and acute angle with the foot. Others have an Achilles’ tendon that bends with great difficulty. In such cases it is necessary to begin a struggle with nature, and here we must exercise great caution and consideration. Therefore, if the feet of a pupil who finds it hard to plié should begin to hurt, especially the ligaments, it is best to refrain for the time being from working on her plié, and return to this work later (Vaganova 1969