Dance Science and the Dance Technique Class

This article examines methods of improving the dance technique class by applying principles from the dance sciences. A brief history of the development of dance science as a field separate from sport science is included. The text focuses on the areas of exercise physiology, dance psychology, and motor control and motor learning. The paper explores practical applications for the dance educator. The main purpose of these suggestions is to enhance the dance technique class without essentially altering the primary structure and artistic goals of the class. For centuries, the practice of teaching dance technique and dance performance has focused on the mastery of the art form. Dance class existed primarily to broaden one's movement vocabulary and skills, to develop one's musicality and phrasing, and to enhance one's unique creativity and expressiveness through a particular voice or style. Although the traditional methods of teaching dance embody fine tools for the training of the dance artist, too many dancers are plagued with injury and frustrated by what seem insurmountable physical obstacles. For the current generation of young dancers, a new field, dance science, has emerged to provide some insights into these problems