Strength, Stamina and Flexibility

Understanding ‘Strength, Stamina and Flexibility in Performance’

  • Strength in dance is the muscular power and force exerted by a dancer during a performance.

  • Stamina is the physical endurance that allows dancers to maintain high-energy performances for extended periods without the experience of fatigue.

  • Flexibility is the dancer’s ability to move their joints through a full range of motion, which enhances the execution of many dance movements.

ELEMENTS OF STRENGTH

  • Strength is required across all muscle groups, but particularly in the core, legs and upper body, for lift work and maintaining balance.

  • Develop strength through regular physical training involving resistance and strength-building exercises.

  • Strength in dance is not only about power - control and precision are equally important for stylised and effective movements.

BUILDING STAMINA

  • Stamina is essential for maintaining high-quality performances, particularly in long and complex dance sequences.

  • It can be improved through aerobic exercise that increases heart rate and lung capacity, such as running, swimming or cycling.

  • Regular rehearsal of dance sequences can help to build stamina, as it helps the body to become accustomed to the physical demands of the choreography.

IMPROVING FLEXIBILITY

  • Flexibility is necessary for executing many dance movements smoothly and elegantly, and can prevent injury.

  • It can be improved through regular stretching exercises and warm-up routines before and after dance practices.

  • Flexibility should be combined with strength and control in order to maintain safe dance practices and avoid overstretching.

PHYSICAL TRAINING FOR PERFORMANCE

  • Develop a consistent and balanced training routine that incorporates strength-building, stamina-enhancing and flexibility-improving exercises.

  • Make sure to adjust the intensity of your workout depending on your capacity, and gradually increase it as your strength, stamina, and flexibility improve.

  • Remember to get plenty of rest between workout sessions to allow muscles to repair and grow stronger.

APPLYING PHYSICAL SKILLS IN PERFORMANCE

  • Use your strength, stamina, and flexibility to enhance your dance technique, allowing you to execute complicated moves with ease and fluidity.

  • Convey the emotional depth of the dance through your movements, using strength and stamina to deliver a powerful performance, and flexibility to add grace and elegance.

  • Always remember to maintain correct posture and alignment, as this can enhance the effectiveness of your movements and prevent injuries.