First exercise: demi-plié and relévé in first position

1. Start in first position, heels facing each other and toes pointing out at the 'ten to two' position.   Put both hands on the barre (or a chair back or something similar).

2. Bend your knees over your toes, keeping your heels on the floor.

3.  Stretch your knees and rise up onto demi-pointe (tiptoes) with straight knees.

Remember to keep your shoulders down and your tummy in, and don't lean on the barre too hard!   If you do the whole exercise a few times can you feel your calf muscles working?