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Oxygen uptake during modern dance class, rehearsal, and performance
Matthew A Wyon1, Grant Abt, Emma Redding
1School of Sport, Performing Arts and Leisure, University of Wolverhampton, United Kingdom. m.wyon@wlv.ac.uk
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
|August 24, 2004
Summary
Dance classes and rehearsals do not adequately prepare dancers for performance demands. Training needs to be supplemented to meet the higher aerobic and anaerobic energy requirements of performance, improving dancer conditioning.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Dance Science
Background:
- Previous studies on dance physiological demands were limited by equipment.
- Understanding the energy systems used in dance class, rehearsal, and performance is crucial for effective training.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if the physiological workload of dance class and rehearsal prepares dancers for performance.
- To compare the energy system demands of dance class, rehearsal, and performance.
Main Methods:
- Measured oxygen uptake and heart rate during dance class, rehearsal, and performance.
- Analyzed the contribution of aerobic, anaerobic glycolytic, and adenosine triphosphate-creatine phosphate systems.
Main Results:
- Dance performance significantly increased mean oxygen uptake and heart rate compared to class and rehearsal (p < 0.05).
- Heart rates during class and rehearsal were infrequently within the aerobic training zone (60-90%HRmax).
- Performance heavily utilized aerobic and anaerobic glycolytic systems, while class/rehearsal emphasized the adenosine triphosphate-creatine phosphate system.
Conclusions:
- Current dance training (class and rehearsal) does not fully prepare dancers for performance physiological demands.
- Training programs should be supplemented to address the higher aerobic and anaerobic energy requirements of dance performance.
- Implementing supplemental training can help bridge the gap in physiological preparation for dancers.