The effects of three months of aerobic and strength training on selected performance- and fitness-related parameters in modern dance students.
The purpose of the present study was to assess the effects of a 12-week aerobic and muscular strength training program on selected dance performance and fitness-related parameters in modern dance students. The sample consisted of 32 men and women (age 19 +/- 2.2 years) who were randomly assigned into exercise (n = 19) and control (n = 13) groups. Anthropometric and flexibility assessments, treadmill ergometry, strength measurements, and- on a separate day-a dance technique test were conducted pre- and postexercise training in both groups. After the end of the program, the exercise group revealed significant increases in dance (p < 0.02), VO(2)max (p < 0.04), flexibility (p < 0.01), and leg strength (p < 0.001) tests compared to controls. It is concluded that in modern dance students (a) a 3-month aerobic and strength training program has positive effects on selected dance performance and fitness-related parameters, (b) aerobic capacity and leg strength improvements do not hinder dance performance as studied herein, and (c) the dance-only approach does not provide enough scope for physical fitness enhancements.
Koutedakis
Yiannis
Y
Department of Sport and Exercise Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala Greece. y.koutedakis@uth.gr
Hukam
Harmel
H
Metsios
George
G
Nevill
Alan
A
Giakas
Giannis
G
Jamurtas
Athanasios
A
Myszkewycz
Lynn
L
D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D000886:Anthropometry; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D003615:Dancing / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg / Q000502:physiology; D008297:Male; D053580:Muscle Strength / Q000502:physiology*; D010806:Physical Education and Training / Q000379:methods*; D010809:Physical Fitness / Q000502:physiology*; D018583:Pliability; D018709:Statistics, Nonparametric; D016896:Treatment Outcome