There are five basic positions in ballet and this article will take you through each in their proper sequence. These position are the basis for all movement in ballet.
Instructions
1. First Position. Feet are turned out with heels touching. The backs of your knees should also be touching. The goal is to create a straight line with your feet, but that turn out takes a lot of practice. The arms should be curved with fingers almost touching in front of the body and the fingers should be at navel level.
2. Second Position. Keeping feet in first position, step out about 12 inches with the right foot. The arms are out to the side of the body with the hand angled slightly downward at about a 45-degree angle. The elbows should be slightly lower than the shoulder and the wrists should be a little lower than the elbows.
3. Third Position. Draw the right foot into the left foot. The right heel should be in the center of the left foot's arch. The left arms stays in second position while the right arm comes back to first position.
4. Fourth Position. Step forward with the right foot about 12 inches. Keep both feet turned out. The left arm comes to first position and the right goes up over your head but stays rounded.
5. Fifth Position. Draw the right foot back to the left. Try to get your feet closer together than in third. Your right heel will line up with your left toe while your right toe is aligned wtih your left heel. Both arms should be above your head with rounded arms.
