Jilly Jams Pliés

Strengthen the legs, the knees in particular, in this bar exercise that uses ballet technique to build deep jazz lines and control. Face the bar and use your fingertips as a guide. You can work toward one hand, or move center.

Each position goes down for eight, pops the heels four times, bounces for eight and elevates. The tailbone drops straight down, not curled or swayed. Expect your thighs to feel it.