First Position

Center Floor; Facing the Barre

In a classic ballet barre class, First Position is an essential series, but there are no rules that say you must include it in a Barre Fusion. First Position Plié is essentially a Narrow Squat on the Frontal Plane, but get its own Series for a few reasons: 

  • First Position is a traditional ballet barre series with hundreds of exercises.

  • Since it’s performed at a barre (or chair/ counter for balance), it may not be appropriate for some environments like a park or gym without barres.

  • This position may not be accessible for everyone, especially people with sensitive knees.

  • Lifting the heels in relevé can put pressure on the ball of the foot, which can cause discomfort. It’s important to remind participants they can lower their heels at any time.

First Position Exercises

  • First Position

    First Position

  • First Position Plié

    First Position Plié

    Narrow Squat; Legs externally rotated; Heels together, toes apart.

  • First Position Passé

    Passé

    One leg lifts; Externally rotated; Toes point to knee or calf.

  • Leg Extension

    Brush front, Leg Lift or Leg Extensions

  • First Position to Fourth Position Combo

    Fourth Position

    Example: First Position to Fourth Position Combo

First Position Choreo

Combos

Previous

Curtsy Lunges
Next

Standing Side Thigh