The Physical Attributes Most Required in Professional Ballet: A Delphi Study.

Area of Science:

• Dance Science
• Sports Medicine
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Ballet is recognized as a highly demanding athletic activity.
• No prior research has identified the specific physical attributes prioritized for classical ballet.
• Desired attributes likely encompass aesthetics, injury prevention, and performance optimization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and rank the physical attributes most valued in elite classical ballet dancers.
• To gather expert consensus on selection criteria for professional ballet companies and schools.

Main Methods:

• A modified Delphi technique was employed using an international expert panel.
• The panel comprised professionals involved in dancer selection and medical care for dancers.
• An open-ended questionnaire was used to gather comprehensive data on favored physical attributes.

Main Results:

• 148 international experts responded to the survey.
• A total of 34 distinct physical attributes were proposed.
• Overall flexibility and overall strength emerged as the two most recommended criteria for selection.

Conclusions:

• Flexibility and strength are the paramount physical attributes sought in elite ballet dancers.
• These findings align with the biomechanical, anatomical, and physiological demands of ballet.
• The study provides empirical evidence for key selection criteria in classical ballet.