What Are the 5 Arm Positions in Ballet?

Ballet

Ballet is an art form that requires precise and careful movements. As such, arm positions are essential to maintain the balance of the body and keep the dancer in correct form.

In ballet, five arm positions are used to create a graceful and beautiful line in each movement. These five arm positions are fifth, fourth, third, second and first position.

Fifth Position

Fifth position is the most common and basic arm position in ballet. The arms are held at a 90-degree angle with the elbows bent slightly outward. The hands are held in front of the body with the palms facing inward, about shoulder width apart or slightly wider.

Fourth Position

Fourth position is similar to fifth position but with one arm slightly lower than the other. The arms remain at a 90-degree angle with the palms facing inward, but one hand is higher than the other. This creates a gentle arc of movement from one hand to the other.

Third Position

In third position, both arms remain at a 90-degree angle but they cross each other at the wrists. This creates an “X” shape with both hands near shoulder level.

The palms should be facing outward when viewed from the front.

Second Position

In second position, one arm is raised above shoulder height while the other remains at shoulder level or slightly lower. Both arms should be held at a 90-degree angle with palms facing outward when viewed from the front.

First Position

First position is similar to second position but both arms are raised above shoulder height and extended away from each other. The elbows remain bent and relaxed while maintaining a 90-degree angle in each arm .The palms should be facing outward when viewed from the front.

These five arm positions are essential for any ballet dancer as they help to create beautiful lines in their movements as well as create balance within their body during different movements and poses in ballet.

In conclusion, there are five essential arm positions used by ballet dancers: fifth, fourth, third, second and first positions. Each of these positions helps dancers maintain balance while executing precise movements that make up this beautiful art form.