Ballet Movements and Positions

Ballet dances typically consist of positions and movements that are put together to create a dance.

Basic Movements
Plié - this move is usually done at the barre. The participant bends their legs from either first or second position and then stands up again. This is usually paired with basic arm motions.



Arabesque - when not done en pointe the arabesque is also a relatively simple move. With one leg on the ground and one high in the air, the participant usually pairs it with one of the five positions of arms.

Attitude - Same as an arabesque, but the leg in the air is slightly bent.

Chasse - a ballet-like slide, usually paired with a low jump

Advanced Movements
Foutté en pointe - perhaps one of the most demanding movements of ballet, the participant spins around with the leg switching from on the knee to up to the side, done en pointe

Arabesque en pointe - same as a regular arabesque, except done en pointe



Attitude en pointe - same as a regular attitude, except done en pointe