The term "ballet knee bends" refers to a specific movement in ballet where the knees are bent and then straightened while maintaining proper alignment and turnout. This movement is also known as plies in French, the language of ballet. Other synonyms for this movement include knee plies, knee bends, and demi-plies. It is a fundamental movement in ballet and is used in many different combinations and exercises throughout various ballet classes. Proper execution of ballet knee bends helps ballet dancers build strength and flexibility in their legs and prepares them for more advanced ballet movements with grace and poise.