The five classic ballet positions are the foundation for all ballet movements and steps. Ballet began in Italy during the Renaissance, and the five positions were codified by French dance master Pierre Beauchamp in the early 1700s.
The positions are a fundamental part of ballet technique and are used to teach dancers coordination, balance, alignment, and body placement.
The first position is the most basic of all ballet positions, composed of feet turned out at a ninety-degree angle with one foot slightly forward of the other. The arms are held in a graceful curve above the head.
This is also known as first position plié, as it is often used as a preparatory position for pliés, or bending of the knees.
Second position is similar to first position but with both feet stepped out wider than in first position. This creates an open line through both legs with toes pointed outward. The arms are held in a graceful curve above the head or may be placed in various other positions depending on the choreography.
Third position is composed of one foot placed in front of the other with heels lightly touching together and toes pointing outward at an angle away from each other. The arms should be held gracefully above or along side the head depending on choreography.
Fourth Position is composed of one foot placed directly behind and slightly wider than its partner with both feet turned out at a ninety-degree angle with heels lightly touching together and toes pointed outward at an angle away from each other.
Fifth Position: Fifth Position is composed of one foot placed directly beside its partner with both feet turned out at a ninety-degree angle with heels lightly touching together and toes pointed outward at an angle away from each other.
These five positions form the basis for all classical ballet steps and movements, providing dancers with a solid base for developing their technique and artistry.
Conclusion:The five classical ballet positions form an essential foundation for all ballet movement and technique. First Position involves feet turned out at a ninety-degree angle; Second Position involves feet further apart; Third Position involves one foot placed in front of another; Fourth Position involves one foot placed behind another; Fifth Position involves one foot placed beside another – all requiring graceful arm placement depending on choreography.