Ballet Positions For Beginners

We are delving into the basics of ballet. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your ballet technique, mastering ballet positions is essential. The five basic positions of the feet and arms form the foundation for all ballet movement. Here’s a step-by-step ballet guide to help beginners understand and perfect each position.

1.First Position

• Feet: Stand with your heels together and toes turned out to the sides, forming a straight line. Your feet should resemble a “V” shape. Aim for a natural turnout, not forcing your feet beyond your hip rotation. Make sure all your toes are on the ground and you are not rolling as this can damage your knees!
• Arms: Create a rounded shape in front of your body, with hands about six inches apart, as if holding a beach ball. Your fingertips should be opposite your belly button and make sure to engage your biceps, send your shoulder blades down into your back pockets and keep the elbows lifted.

**Tips for First Position**: Engage your core and keep your back straight. Ensure your shoulders are down and relaxed.

2. Second Position

• Feet: Slide one foot outward so there’s a gap between your heels, keeping both feet turned out. The distance should be about hip-width apart, maintaining the same turnout.
• Arms: Extend both arms outward to the sides, maintaining a gentle curve. Keep your elbows slightly lifted, with hands at shoulder height.

**Tips for Second Position**: Keep your weight evenly distributed between both feet. Engage your thighs and glutes to support turnout.

3. Third Position

• Feet: Bring one heel to the middle arch of the opposite foot, with both feet turned outward. Make sure you do not force your turn out, keep all toes on the ground and don't roll!
• Arms: Raise one arm above your head in a soft curve, while the other arm remains in first position (rounded in front of you).

**Tips for Third Position**: Although it’s less commonly used in professional ballet, it’s an excellent way for beginners who are just starting their ballet journey to understand foot placement before moving on to fifth position.

4.Fourth Position

• Feet: Step one foot directly in front of the other, creating a space of about one foot between them. Ensure both feet remain turned out. Your front toes should be in alignment with the back heel, this is a good thing to think about for beginners to check if you have the correct placement.
• Arms: Raise one arm in a rounded curve above your head, while the other arm remains in second position (extended out to the side). The top hand should be on top of the crown of your head and you should be able to see your side arm from the corner of your eye.

**Tips for Fourth Position**: Check that your hips stay squared forward to avoid twisting your torso.

5. Fifth Position

• Feet: Place the heel of one foot directly in front of the toes of the opposite foot, with both feet turned out to form a straight line.
• Arms Raise both arms above your head in a rounded shape, maintaining a slight curve.

**Tips for Fifth Position**: This position requires strong turnout and core engagement. Beginners may find it challenging but focus on building strength and balance gradually. If you are struggling to maintain the correct placement it's ok to take it back to third position!

Following these ballet tips will set a strong foundation for your ballet journey, don’t beat yourself up if you are not doing everything perfectly straight away. As you grow more comfortable, you’ll begin to feel the fluidity and grace that ballet is known for. Enjoy the process, and remember: remember practice makes perfect, every professional dancer once stood where you are today!

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For more dance technique tips check out our How to Learn to Dance blog or 5 Exercises To Prevent Injuries After a Long Break blog!

The Move Dance Team x