1. Stand behind ladder, facing away from it; hold on to side rails with both hands. Bend trailing leg and straighten out over crossbar. Push torso backwards to elevate trailing leg in a higher arabesque position.
2. Resistive – push down against crossbar with extended leg (10 counts) while holding position with arms. Rest for 10 counts. Repeat at least 3 times.
3. For a higher leg stretch, use alternate SG configuration (on end). Face the rear of SG, hold on to sides, and elevate trailing leg over center ballet barre section. Repeat resistive exercise.
4. Repeat for other leg.
5. To strengthen the hip and thigh muscles that elevate the back leg, turn around and face the ladder section; hold on to the vertical side bars with both hands; keeping your head and chest erect, swing your back leg backwards as far as possible. Repeat 10 times on each leg.
For more information on performing arabesques, visit the About.com page:
Exercises 
