5 Basic Ballet Positions for the Complete Beginner

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One of the first things a new ballet dancer will learn are the five basic ballet positions. These formations are important because every move in this dance form begins and ends in one of these positions. As young dancers learn and master these five positions correctly, they can move forward to more challenging moves. Here are some reasons why your child could benefit from our ballet classes in Toronto for kids.

Benefits of Ballet

Ballet may seem like a slow and passive dance, but it requires years of practice, flexibility, strength, balance, and control to master. If you’ve ever seen the famous Nutcracker performance, you’ll get a glimpse into the challenging spins, jumps, smooth and quick movements, and impressive balance that comes with the dance. There are many reasons why young girls and boys choose ballet to begin their dance foundation.

First, it gives dancers a better understanding of their body. Gaining control of ever muscle from the top of their head to the tips of their toes helps dancers learn their strengths and limitations and work hard to grow through them. The dedication and practice required of ballet builds strength and endurance, which is an asset for all other dance genres. Ballet is all about the line, which means poise and posture are foundational elements that make the dance so impressive. Ballet also enhances technique, allowing young dancers to gain more confidence as they see themselves progress.

Here are the positions beginner dancers will learn in our ballet classes for kids in Toronto and how they are formed.

First Position

The first position in ballet dance for beginners has the dancer stand tall with their toes turned out completely, while keeping their heels touching. The soles of both feet should be firmly planted to the floor. At first, it may be difficult to keep the legs straight without bending at the knees, but with practice and time, the entire length of the legs should be in contact with each other. The arch of the feet should not roll forward.

The arms should be relaxed at the sides, and the elbows should be slightly bent so the hands do not reach the thighs. They should be placed in an inch in front of the hips.

Second Position

In the second position, the dancer will stand in the first position and then slide the feet apart as much as is comfortable (approximately one-foot apart).

The arms raise from position one until they are almost at shoulder height in front of their body. The hands should be roughly the width of the face apart. Then, the arms should be opened out wide like wings to form the second position, keeping the hands relaxed and soft.

Third Position

The next beginner dance position is the third position. This position is very popular in barre exercises but is rarely used by contemporary choreographers and dancers. The third position looks like the fifth position, but the fifth position is more relaxed. To get into the third position, dancers will begin in the second position and slide one foot toward the other allowing the heel of the front foot to touch the arch of the back foot.

For the arms, one should be brought in front of the dancer, while the second remains outstretched.

Fourth Position

In the fourth position, which is much like the third position, the stance is nearly the same, but the feet are further apart. To get into this position, the dancer will begin in third position and slide their front foot further away from the body and toward an imaginary audience. The length between the front and back foot should be about one-foot apart.

One arm should be raised over the head, with a slight curve. The arm that is raised should be opposite to the front foot (if the right foot is in front, lift the left arm). The other arm should be spread out as in the second position.

Fifth Position

The final beginner position is the fifth postion. In this position, the dancer begins standing in the fourth position, but instead of leaving one-foot distance between the feet, the feet will be in full contact with each other. The toes of each foot should be turned as much as possible to contact the heel of the other foot. It takes great balance and flexibility to stand in this position, as both feet must be completely parallel to each other.

As for the arms, both should be raised over head with a slight curve. The hands should be about a head-width apart, arms slightly bent, and shoulders down and relaxed.

How Performing Dance Arts Can Help You

Looking for ballet lessons in Woodbridge or Toronto for your child? Performing Dance Arts is the right place for them! Our dance school is run by trained instructors with years of industry experience and skill, who care greatly about the progress and happiness of our students. Our outstanding studios are well-designed to inspire creativity and comfort, so every child can learn to dance with confidence, passion, and excitement. If your child has been twirling around at home and is interested in ballet, visit our dance studio in Toronto and see why we’re the best choice!

Our classes cater to children of all ages and skill levels, so contact us today to enroll your child or learn more. We’re prepared to answer all your questions, and will give you a tour of our facilities so you can see the environment your child will be learning in. Want to see your child’s first few lessons? Our parent and guarding waiting room has television screens where you can watch your child learn! Pay us a visit and learn more about how we can set up the right dance foundation for your little one.

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