What is Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT)?

PBT is a targeted conditioning program for dancers that uses fit balls, small stability balls and resistance bands to develop core strength, alignment, turnout control and body awareness for Ballet.

Why is PBT good for young dancers?

PBT improves core and pelvic stability, posture, turnout awareness, foot and ankle strength and helps reduce injury risk. The muscle memory transfers directly to barre and centre work.

Do students need to take Ballet as well?

PBT is intended to support Ballet training, so taking Ballet alongside PBT gives the best results and application in class.

Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT) Near Canterbury

Q: Is PBT suitable for beginners?

Yes. Exercises are layered and scaleable. We establish alignment and safe technique first, then progressively increase challenge.

Q: Do you offer trial classes?

Artists in Motion does not offer free trials. The trial lesson is included in the cost of the first class to provide a complete, authentic experience within the regular group setting.

Targeted conditioning for Ballet — build core, turnout control and placement with smart, safe progressions.

What Is Progressing Ballet Technique?

Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT) is a specialised conditioning program designed to help dancers feel correct muscle engagement for Ballet. Using fit balls, resistance bands and small stability balls, students develop the core strength, alignment and turnout control required for safe, efficient technique at the barre and in centre.

At Artists in Motion, PBT is taught by trained staff who focus on body awareness and safe progressions so dancers can translate strength and placement into their regular Ballet classes.

Why PBT Helps Young Dancers

Core & pelvic stability: Improved control for balance, turns and adage.
Turnout awareness: Activate deep external rotators without gripping or forcing.
Posture & placement: Neutral spine, scapular stability and correct weight placement.
Foot & ankle strength: Safer relevés, jumps and landings.
Injury reduction: Progressive loading and alignment cues reduce overuse risk.
Transfer to class: Clear muscle memory that carries into barre and centre work.

Our PBT Class Structure

Sessions begin with breath and core activation, then move through turnout conditioning, adage control, allegro preparation and footwork. We finish with gentle release work to aid recovery. Exercises are layered so each dancer works at an appropriate level.

Equipment Used

Fit ball (Swiss ball): For pelvic placement, core stability and adage control.
Small stability (fusion) ball: Adductor engagement, turnout awareness and upper-back support.
Resistance band/theraband: Foot articulation, ankle strength and controlled extensions.
Yoga mat: Comfortable, stable base for floor work.

We provide equipment in class. If you have your own, bring it along and we’ll check sizes are suitable.

Who Is PBT For?

Juniors (7–10 years): Foundational core, posture and turnout awareness.
Inters (11–13 years): Strength, control and alignment transferred to Ballet vocabulary.
Seniors (14–18 years): Advanced conditioning for pirouettes, adage and allegro efficiency.

PBT complements weekly Ballet — ideal alongside syllabus or open classes.

What Will My Child Develop?

Neutral pelvis, rib placement and scapular stability
Deep core activation (not gripping abdominals)
Turnout from the hip (without forcing knees/feet)
Articulation of feet for relevé and jumps
End-range control for extensions and adage
Breath use, endurance and efficient coordination

Where We Teach

PBT classes run in our Bourne and Astaire Studios at Intex House, Cooting Road, Aylesham, CT3 3EP — a short drive from Canterbury, with sprung floors and a calm space for focused conditioning.

PBT – Frequently Asked Questions

Does my child need to take Ballet as well?

PBT is designed to support Ballet technique, so we recommend attending Ballet alongside PBT for best results.

Is PBT suitable for beginners?

Yes. Exercises are scaled and safely introduced. We focus on correct alignment before adding challenge.

Do you offer trial classes?

We don’t offer free trials — the trial lesson is included in the cost of the first class to provide a full, authentic experience within the regular group setting.

What should they wear/bring?

Comfortable fitted dancewear, socks or bare feet, and water. We provide the balls and bands; bring your own mat if you prefer.

Ready to Try PBT?

Your child’s first lesson serves as their trial and is included in the cost of the first class. It’s the best way to feel correct muscle engagement and see how PBT supports their Ballet.

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