WHY should a dancer do conditioning?
Dancing is a sport that puts significant strength and flexibility demands on the body. Athletes in other sports may say that Dancing is not a 'sport', and it is more artistic performance, but they are quite wrong!
Some Dancers have natural strength, balance, and core strength that will take them through the lower levels of dancing quickly, but the majority of Dancers need to improve upon each of those attributes in order to progress to higher levels and in increase longevity.
Natural ability will only take them so far. The strength requirements of the sport/art are significant. A Dancer needs to build strength beyond what he or she naturally has. By engaging is a properly designed conditioning training program, Dancers will progress at a faster pace, and be able to handle the strength demands of dancing longer and with far fewer injuries which plague so many Dancers.
Here are some examples of the attributes a Dancer needs to attain their full potential …
- Core strength and stability
Core strength originates from the abdominal and back muscles. These muscles work together to act as a ‘control center’ for the body’s balance and stability. Dancers need exceptionally strong core muscles to maintain balance, and to maintain the many complex positions for moving and jumping.. Without sufficient core strength, a Dancer would not maintain consistency of these elements. - Balance
Think about how much of the dance skills require balance: almost everything! Some people are blessed with natural balance, but the majority of us need improvement through exercises. There are several factors which affect the sense of balance in our body. First, our vestibular system (the inner ear) helps us sense the body’s position while we are moving. Second, the eyes help us detect our surroundings. Third, and most important for Dancers, the balance receptors in our feet and lower extremities tell us where our bodies are in relation to the ground. - Strength and power
Without muscle strength, a Dancer would dance more sluggishly, have small jumps, and would tire easily in a performance and in practice sessions. Strength creates power and improves endurance, and is a necessity for a Dancer to improve and become consistent. Through exercise, a muscle’s fibers become tighter and stronger, and can withstand more repetition for longer durations when asked to contract.
More and more Dance studios are becoming aware that dancing alone is not enough. They are beginning to realize that properly conditioned dancers are better dancers!
Done correctly, you'll be amazed how conditioning training can (will) improve the ability of even high-level dancers. You too can be Dancing Your Best!
