Which term describes the second arm position?

• A. Seconde
• B. Première
• C. Cinquième
• D. Quatrième

Answer: (A)

In Cecchetti, arm positions are named in French and describe where the arms sit. The term describing the second arm position is Seconde. In this position the arms extend to the sides, forming a gentle rounded shape around the torso, with the shoulders relaxed and the chest open. It creates a clear horizontal line from fingertip to fingertip and is used to build balance and smooth transitions.

This is different from Première, where the arms come together in front of the body; Cinquième, where the arms are raised overhead in a rounded shape; and Quatrième, where one arm is in front or raised while the other sits to the side, depending on the variation. Remembering that Seconde means the arms are to the sides helps you identify the correct position quickly.