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How to Execute the Five Positions in Ballet

Among the first things that a ballet student learns are the five basic foot positions in ballet. Beginning students will probably learn to execute these while standing at the bar, which will help with balance. At first, the positions will feel awkward but with time and practice you will adjust to them.

Things You'll Need

  • Ballet shoes
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Instructions

    • 1

      Achieve first position in ballet by touching both of your heels together. Turn your feet outward, and turn your legs out from the hip socket. Bend your arms with your elbows out to the sides, and position your hands in the center of your torso, above your waistline.

    • 2

      Create a width of 1 foot between your support leg (the left) and your working leg (the right) to execute second position. It is the same as first position except you move your right foot to the right and set it down. Keep your feet and legs turned out and raise your arms out to the sides.

    • 3

      Bring your right foot to the front to transition to the third position, but do not move your left foot from its position in second. Touch the heel of your right foot to the middle arch area of your left foot. Both feet should still be turned outward, with your right toe facing right and your left toe facing left. Raise your right arm and curve it slightly over your head, and raise your left arm and extend it to your left.

    • 4

      Achieve fourth position by placing your front foot 1 foot apart from your back foot, which should remain where it was in the third position. The front foot also remains in the same position, but there is now space between the front and back foot. Your right arm is still raised over your head. Bring your left arm to the front and curve it at the elbow. Your left hand and forearm should be in front of your torso.

    • 5

      Move on to the fifth position knowing it is rather difficult to accomplish. The toe of one foot touches the heel of the other foot and vice versa. Both feet are completely turned out, and your arms are held overhead in a curved fashion.

Ballet

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