5 Basic Foot Positions
All dances are made from combinations of steps and all steps are made from combinations of elements – elements are the building blocks of all dance.
In this post I list the five most common foot elements, known as the Five Foot Positions. These positions are found in all Ballroom, Swing and Latin Dances.
First Position
The feet are placed together – the heels and balls of your feet are touching.
First Position is known as the ‘starting’ position. All dances use this position, however, Latin dances have made it a feature.
Second Position
The feet are placed apart, side by side.
Second position is just a step to the side. It is used in the Basic Step of most dances and features in the Basic Bossa Nova, Bachata and Merengue.
Third Position
The first foot is straight. The heel of the second foot is placed at the arch of the first foot. The angle of the second foot depends on the use of the element.
Third Position is primarily used in Swing dances, especially as a technique in the Single and Triple Swing. It can also be used in Smooth dances such as the Waltz.
Fourth Position
The first foot is in front of the second foot.
Forth Position is normally used as a walking or rocking step. It is a prominent element in every dance. The distance of the ’stepping’ action depends on the style of the dance.
Fifth Position.
The first foot is straight. The second foot is crossed behind with the toe pointing to the heel of the first foot – the angle and distance depends on the use of the element.
Fifth position is most often used as a rocking step. It is used in Swing and Latin dances, however, Smooth dances can also use this position.