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Step-by-Step Alignment and Point

By Treva Bedinghaus, About.com

1 of 8

Perfect Body Alignment

Correct alignment

Correct alignment

Photo © Tracy Wicklund
Correct body alignment is essential for ballet. Often called placement, alignment is one of the first things you learn. Let's start with the feet and work our way up the body:
  • Your weight should be distributed between both feet. Keep all ten toes on the floor. Do not allow the ankles to roll inward or outward.
  • Your knees should be directly over your toes.
  • Turn your legs out at the hips. Keep your knees straight.
  • Align your hips with the center of your feet.
  • Pull your shoulders down, keeping them wide and flat.
  • Hold your torso slightly forward.
  • Lift your chest. Do not allow your ribs to stick out.
  • Relax your neck, holding your chin up.

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