Ballet Basics

Learning the basic ballet positions is key to learning all of the other steps there are to learn. Whether you are brand new to ballet or have been taking class for a while, revisiting the basics is one of the best things a dancer can do! All of the beautiful, intricate and advanced steps we do in ballet are built upon the basics, so it’s very important that we fully understand them to progress in our technique.

The 5 Positions

In ballet, there are 5 main positions of the feet. If you are a pure beginner, returning to ballet, or practice ballet regularly, these fundamental positions are important, so let’s go over them!

Arms and Hands

The positioning of the arms and hands are an important part of ballet. With so many things to focus on in ballet, what the arms and hands are doing can easily get forgotten! Let’s go over how to properly hold and place them.

Body Positions

There are many different body positions and facings in ballet that are used both at barre and in center. These positions, (and there are many!) give depth to the physical movement and create different planes on which to dance. In this first video, we go over the 8 core body positions and facings that we use in ballet, and how to correctly position your arms and legs.

Want more?

In this second video we continue to break down some of the different ballet positions in center, and how to do them correctly. There is a lot involved with all the different placements of the body, arms, and legs, and it can often get confusing! But we are here to help!

Let’s dance!

New to ballet and want to learn more? Check out our Beginner Ballet Overture Program!