How Many Positions of the Arm Are There in Ballet?

Ballet

Ballet is a form of dance that requires incredible precision, technique and strength. It is one of the most popular types of dance and there are many different positions of the arm used in ballet. Each position requires a specific alignment of the body and arms in order to create a particular effect or movement.

The five basic arm positions in ballet are first position, second position, third position, fourth position and fifth position. Each position has a distinct look and feel to it that emphasizes certain movements.

The arms in these positions should be held close to the body with the elbows slightly bent. The arms should also be kept parallel to each other.

First position is the most basic arm posture and is formed by extending both arms out to the sides with palms facing forward. This creates an open frame for many other movements such as pliés, battements and grand allegro steps.

Second position is similar to first but with one arm extended out further than the other. The outside arm should be at a ninety-degree angle while the inside arm remains close to the body with palm facing down. This creates an elongated line from head to toe.

Third position is formed by crossing one arm over the other in front of the chest with palms facing down and elbows slightly bent outward. The crossed arms create an “X” shape that can be used for various jumps, turns or balances.

Fourth position also utilizes crossed arms but this time they are placed behind the back instead of in front.

This creates an elegant line from head to toe as well as added stability for difficult movements such as pirouettes.

Fifth position consists of both arms being held above your head with elbows slightly bent outward and hands touching each other so that palms face opposite directions (right palm up, left palm down). This gives a dramatic look on stage while also helping build strength for more advanced moves such as multiple fouettés.

Conclusion: There are five main positions of the arm used in ballet: first, second, third, fourth and fifth positions. Each one requires precise alignment of body and arms which help create various shapes on stage as well as added stability for more difficult movements such as pirouettes or jumps. All these positions help make ballet an incredibly unique art form that requires great skill and dedication from dancers all over the world.