Ballet Feet/Hands Positions

Ballet Feet Positions

by LaCresha Walker

​First Position

​the heels are together, with toes turned out until the feet are in a straight line

Multiple Choice

In first position, the heels of the feet are together and turned out until they form a _____?

• zig-zag line 

• on a diagonal 

• circle 

• straight line

​Second Position

the feet are in a parallel line, separated by a distance of about 12 inches (30 cm) and both turned outward, with the weight equally divided between them.

Multiple Choice

Select the picture that demonstartes Second Position?

​Third Position

​the heel of one foot rests against the instep of the other; both are firmly turned out, and the weight is divided between them. Used extensively in 18th-century social dances such as the minuet and gavotte, this position has almost disappeared from theatrical usage.

​Fourth Position

​one foot rests about 12 inches in advance of the other, both are turned out, and the weight is divided between them. Like the second position,

​Fifth Position

​the feet are turned out and pressed closely together, the heel of the one foot against the toe of the other.

Open Ended

What is the difference between the fifth and third positions?