Perceptions of Strength Training in Dance

Abstract

The aim of this study was to ascertain current perceptions of strength training (ST) in dance from the viewpoint of the professional dancer, dance teacher, and student dancers across dance genres. A total of 168 responses (149 females, 19 males) to the modified Training Information Survey (TIS) were analyzed for differences in perceptions of ST between dance students, professional dancers, and dance teachers. Some significant differences were found between professionals and teachers (p > 0.05) and between students and teachers (p > 0.001). In all instances, dance teachers were less likely to agree with the following: ST is essential to my overall development as a dancer, women should participate in ST, men should participate in ST, ST should be part of every training program regardless of dance style, ST is beneficial to women, and ST increases bodyweight. It is evident that perceptions of ST still vary across the dance sector, and it is postulated that further education for dancers on the role ST has to play on the development of a dancer would help to break down barriers to participation. From this investigation, it can also be concluded that the perception that dancers have a fear of muscle hypertrophy and a negative impact on aesthetics is no longer widely prevalent, although it still permeates throughout the dance sector.

Strength Training Perceptions Amongst Vocational Circus and Dance Students

“…These perceptions concur with recent research that demonstrates a sea-change in perceptions, particularly amongst students. 16,19 Prior research has stated that there is often misinformation on the importance of strength training to optimize performance in sport and dance, 23,24 particularly in relation to 19 In the current study, both dance and circus students neither agreed nor disagreed with the statement "Strength training is fun and enjoyable," 4.00 (IQR 0.00) and 4.00 (IQR 1.00) respectively and "Strength training enhances body and self-image," 4.00 (IQR 1.50) and 4.00 (IQR 1.00). It has been suggested that barriers to participation in strength training may be removed through an increase in education on the benefits and techniques of strength training 16,19 and that this may in turn lead to increases in intrinsically motivating factors.…”

“…Results demonstrate an understanding amongst dance students and professional dancers of the need for strength training and an agreement that it is beneficial to their performance as well as how they feel about themselves physically and mentally. 16 Previous literature relating to body composition in dance, described modern dancers as having a more muscular physique 21 and that they had a stronger focus on physiological demands rather than esthetic qualities. 16,22 No research has explored similar themes in circus students.…”

“…14 It is suggested that dancers often perceive fitness as the absence of injury, 15 rather than a requisite part of dance training and that strength is not necessary for a successful dance career. 16 Investigations into levels of physical fitness in dancers have suggested they have similar levels of strength to the general population and are not as fit as their athletic counterparts. 17,18 However, circus artists who participated in both aerial and ground acrobatics have been found to have greater shoulder strength and range of motion than the general population.…”

Isolated Joint Block Progression Training Improves Leaping Performance in Dancers

“…Progressive strength and conditioning programs that elicit increased power output are implemented in ballistic athletes to enhance stretch-shortening cycle (SSC) function (Cormie et al, 2010 ; Haff and Nimphius, 2012 ). As knowledge on the benefits of resistance exercise continually grows, additional training in ballistic athletes such as dancers, has become increasingly prevalent within dance companies, schools, and teams (Farmer and Brouner, 2021 ). Although the perception is shifting, optimal programming for dancers is still in the developmental stages (i.e., exercises, volume, intensity, and rest).…”

Effect of Supplementary Physical Training on Vertical Jump Height in Professional Ballet Dancers

“…One of the reasons for this, has been the assumption that dancers are concerned (particularly in females) about increasing muscle mass and its impact on the aesthetic component of dance. However, a recent study with a mixed genre of professional dancers (19 ballet dancers included) has concluded that the dancers' perception is to not be afraid of muscle hypertrophy, which is a more prevalent preconception in dance teachers 10 . Due to the physical demands and physiological responses observed in professional ballet 11 , designing optimal training programs for dancers is a relevant area of research.…”