Physiology in Dance: Instructional Presentation for Dance Students

Abstract

The purpose of the following document and supplemental presentations and questionnaire is to provide an overview of physiology as it relates to dance and introduce students of dance to physiology and nutrition and so begin to encourage them to think more about how the body works and how best to sustain it. The audience chosen for the original presentation of information are the University of Arizona School of Dance freshman students, who were chosen for their dedication to dance and with the hope that the provision of this information during their freshman year, will aid them in sustaining their dance for years to come. The resulting survey analysis provided information from which to base further physiological and nutritional emphasis in their education. At the conclusion of the survey it is clear that there is a focus among dancers in their crosstraining and nutritional practices, though larger populations of students would also reveal more accurate survey results as well as guidance for future instruction. It is my hope that through providing information we may prevent young dancers from suffering under common misconceptions that may limit their performance and in turn, their career.