Improving the technique of performing elements of sports dance for dancers aged 15-16 at the stage of specialised basic training

Abstract

The specificity of modern competitive dances requires a high level of preparedness, the ability to maintain maximum concentration, precise execution of dynamic movements and their biomechanical optimisation. A special role in the construction of the training process is attributed to the technical execution of elements within the European dance programme. Therefore, the purpose of the study was to scientifically substantiate the improvement of the technique of the dance elements of the European programme and to create corresponding training methods for dancers aged 15-16 at the stage of specialised basic training. The research involved 40 athletes aged 15-16 of category C according to the regulations of the International Dance Sport Association. The level of specialised training was determined through expert evaluation of the components of five types of competitive activities. Training session models were developed with the aim of improving motor skills and improve technical mastery the performance of dance elements of the European dance programme. According to the developed model, each session involved the combined use of physical and technical training methods by selecting comprehensive “blocks” of exercises that addressed additional physical conditioning tasks, and “blocks” of selected foundational exercises and individual figures from the European dance programme aimed at refining the technical preparedness. It was found that it is advisable to apply various foundational exercises, elements of dance figures at different tempos with fixation of points in the respective positions, swing movements and steps in balance and semi-balance with movement in different directions, to refine sways and shapes, and to use various jumps and running step variations: a run corresponding to the conditions of competitive dance execution and a run during which an additional dance is performed between each dance, depending on the focus of the session. The research findings can assist experts in sports dancing in improving the training process for dancers