pliée

Plié is a fundamental ballet movement consisting of a controlled bending of the knees with turnout from the hips. The term comes from the French verb plier, meaning to bend. It serves as a warm-up, a preparation for jumps, and a transition between steps in classical technique.

Technique and variations. Pliés are typically performed in most foot positions, with the spine long and the pelvis tucked under to maintain alignment. Turnout from the hips and weight distribution across the feet are essential. The knees bend, tracking over the middle toes. In demi-plié (half bend), the knees bend to about 45 degrees while the heels stay on the floor and the torso remains upright. In grand plié (full bend), the knees bend more deeply, lowering the pelvis toward the ankles while maintaining turnout and a tall upper body. The feet remain flat on the floor with the heels down in standard pedagogy, though some schools permit a very slight heel lift at the bottom of a grand plié.

Use and purpose. Pliés develop leg strength, flexibility, stability, and turnout control. They are used at the start of many exercises and as a bridge between steps, often preceding jumps or relevés. Path of the knees should be forward over the toes, and the torso should stay aligned with the hips throughout the movement.

History and terminology. The term is French, and plié is a core element codified in early French ballet technique, with Beauchamp among the influential figures describing turnout and alignment. Common errors include knees collapsing inward, weight shifting onto the toes, and loss of turnout.