What is the elastic around her legs,
what do they do and how do you use them, how do you get them to sit correct on your legs, I have a theraband but dont know how to use it in this way,
x

edit. is there a way i can use a theraband to assist me in stretching my box splits, or are therabands not even to help with stretching?...

x

Yeah, I use a theraband like that. Just hold it in place with your toes and set it across your lower back.

All I know is that these sort of "must have gimmick items" will not be seen in use in Russian, Ukraine, Chinese, Mongolian or similar trainer's rooms. "Grassy" in Germany and arguably the best trainer of contortionists in Europe uses the old and well tried system as well.

"Gimmick" items are not what achieves flexibility; determination and dedication to gentle stretching will get you there without injury.

Ian

What is their purpose though?...
Do they pull your legs into split position? x

Honestly, I haven't a clue how you would use those foot thingys. I do have a theraband, but do not use it in that fashion. I sure would hate to have to use the bathroom in a rush and have those contraptions on my feet. LOL!!!!

It pulls your legs more into the stretch. I use my theraband this way, but I'm far from a middle split like that, so I can't tell whether it helps or not

Although I'm not sure what it's for, it looks a bit like one of these www.dancedirect.com . . .

It says: "This classic physic-therapeutical training belt with strong pull is excellent to flex muscles, and to increase fitness, strength and flexibility. This belt is used by professional dancer's throughout the world primarily for increased leg flexibility."

I'm just wondering how she got herself into that position.

Although... for a flexible dancer, nowadays every possible movement seems possible.

^^^^^

"This belt is used by professional dancer's throughout the world" - a typical advertising comment!

Ian

Know plenty of professional dancers who have got their flexability by sheer determination and work ...not with these things
Never seen any in or used a dance academy

These gimmicks can cause more harm than good

Mama DD's xxx

I think the theraband thing adds resistant
or whatever so it makes you get more of a stretch.

Thera bands are also good for strengthing
you ankles. I have to before i start pointe.

i use those in dance all the time. they help in a lot of ways. the way she is using it in the picture is working her muscles more than stretching. becuase she has to hold her legs there intsead of letting the theraband snap her legs back together.

I think they are called Deuserbands... It was discussed on the ballet board before.