Dynamic Neuro-Cognitive Imagery (DNITM) Improves Developpé Performance, Kinematics, and Mental Imagery Ability in University-Level Dance Students

Abstract

Dance requires optimal range-of-motion and cognitive abilities. Mental imagery is a recommended, yet under-researched, training method for enhancing both of these. This study investigated the effect of Dynamic Neuro-Cognitive Imagery (DNI TM ) training on developpé performance (measured by gesturing ankle height and self-reported observations) and kinematics (measured by hip and pelvic range-of-motion), as well as on dance imagery abilities. Thirty-four university-level dance students ( M age = 19.70 ± 1.57) were measured performing three developpé tasks (i.e., 4 repetitions, 8 consecutive seconds hold, and single repetition) at three time-points (2 × pre-, 1 × post-intervention). Data were collected using three-dimensional motion capture, mental imagery questionnaires, and subjective reports. Following the DNI TM intervention, significant increases ( p < 0.01) were detected in gesturing ankle height, as well as in hip flexion and abduction range-of-motion, without significant changes in pelvic alignment. These gains were accompanied by self-reported decrease ( p < 0.05) in level of difficulty experienced and significant improvements in kinesthetic ( p < 0.05) and dance ( p < 0.01) imagery abilities. This study provides evidence for the motor and non-motor benefits of DNI TM training in university-level dance students.

The Role of Mental Imagery in Parkinson’s Disease Rehabilitation

“…Mental imagery is a term used to describe the cognitive process of simulating sensations, actions, or other types of experiences [ 102 ] through generating and using mental images, including metaphors. Mental imagery can be performed in the absence of appropriate sensory input [ 103 , 104 ] or while the imaged stimulus is available to the imager [ 105 , 106 , 107 ]. When related to movement, mental imagery can be done with or without physical execution of the imaged movement [ 108 , 109 ] as well as while observing the movement performed by another individual or a video (aka “action observation”) [ 110 , 111 ].…”

“…In doing so, DNI addresses various cognitive aspects associated with motor planning and performance, such as efficiency, proprioception, body schema, attentional focus, and dual tasking. The beneficial effects of DNI on motor and non-motor functions have been recently demonstrated in dancers and PwP [ 106 , 107 , 130 ]. Given that DNI, unlike MIP, has been empirically studied only in recent years and is less known by both clinicians and researchers, the current paper focuses on introducing its qualities that may be specifically relevant for PD rehabilitation and that should be further investigated.…”

Effect of Visualization on Muscular Activation for Stability in Adolescent Ballet Students

“…To prevent such injuries and adhere to biomechanics, ballet training methods often include imagery techniques that are used to help improve dancers' abilities, posture, and technique. However, much of this practice is solely based on the experience of the instructor and its results are anecdotal (Abraham, 2019). This means that there are many gaps between research on imagery and dance instruction (Abraham, 2019).…”

“…However, much of this practice is solely based on the experience of the instructor and its results are anecdotal (Abraham, 2019). This means that there are many gaps between research on imagery and dance instruction (Abraham, 2019). In fact, few published studies have actually been conducted with the focus on the effect of the imagery training for dance students on either motor and nonmotor outcomes (e.g.…”

“…Ballet training methods include imagery techniques however, much of this practice is solely based on the experience of the instructor and its results are anecdotal so that there are many gaps between research on imagery and dance instruction. Few published studies focus on the effect of the imagery training for dance students on either motor and nonmotor outcomes (Abraham, 2019). A survey was administered to ballet instructors to determine the most used visualization cues for stability.…”