Eli5: Why do dancers start with a “5, 6, 7, 8” count?

Question

Why is this and what’s the point? Why not just start at 1, 2, 3, 4?

P.S. I’m a ballerina

In: 468

Answer 1

Since the first step of a dance is on “The One”, meaning the first beat of the measure, counting “5,6,7,8” is a LEAD- IN to that first beat. Then everyone KNOWS when “One” is coming. It’s right after “8”.