Five Positions of Dance

The Five positions of dance initiate many movement patterns. When working in these positions, maintain lateral rotation from your hip joints. Evenly distribute the weight of your body over your toes, balls of your feet, and your heels.

First Position

Begin with your legs parallel and your feet together. With your heels touching, laterally rotate your legs from your hip joint.

Second Position

Begin in First Position. Separate your heels one foot apart. Ballet instructors will assist their students in finding the healthiest and most appropriate position to suit individual needs.

Third Position

Cross one foot in front of the other, placing the foot in the middle of the other foot. Balance your weight evenly on both feet.

Fourth Position

From First Position, cross one foot in front of the other about one foot apart. Align your heels with your big toes, maintaining excellent lateral rotation.

Fifth Position

From Fourth Position, bring your feet together. Align your heels with your big toes.  Balance your weight evenly on both feet. Maintain your lateral rotation from your hip joints.