Self-critical appreciation: alignment

Alignment is a key concept in dance, referring to the positioning or arrangement of body parts in relation to each other.
The importance of proper alignment cannot be overstated; it affects the efficiency and aesthetics of movement, and also plays a vital role in injury prevention.
The letters that make up ‘BAP’ can help you remember the main areas of focus for alignment: Body, Arms, and Posture.
The ‘Body’ portion refers to the maintenance of a vertical line travelling through the body’s midline, from the top of the head down through to the feet. Dancers should aim to keep this line straight when performing movements, regardless of whether they are static or dynamic.
‘Arms’ refers to the positioning of the arms in relation to the rest of the body. Different styles of dance may require different arm placements, but universally, it is crucial to maintain control and avoid unnecessary tension.
‘Posture’ is a critical component of alignment. It refers to the overall positioning of the body and its inherent balance. Good posture maintains the body’s alignment and is aesthetically pleasing in the context of a dance performance.
Self-critical appreciation of alignment involves an honest evaluation and understanding of one’s own body alignment during performance practise. It requires knowledge of correct alignment principles, and the ability to assess when these principles are being followed and when they are being violated.
Self-criticism is a constructive process. It doesn’t mean being hard on oneself, but rather being objective and understanding of areas for improvement.
Achieving good alignment requires consistent practise and awareness. Repeated self-assessment and correction is key to reinforcing proper body alignment.
Training tools like mirrors or video recordings can be beneficial for ensuring accurate self-critical appreciation of alignment. They allow for visual feedback, helping to pinpoint areas that may need adjustment.
It is also beneficial to complement self-assessment with guidelines from a knowledgeable instructor or coach. Their professional input can offer a different perspective and provide valuable advice for adjustment and improvement.