Reliability of a Barre-Mounted Dynamometer-Stabilizing Device in Measuring Dance-Specific Muscle Performance

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Sports Science
• Dance Science

Background:

• Hand-held dynamometry is a portable method for measuring lower extremity strength but lacks studies specific to dance.
• Dynamometry results can vary due to tester strength and sex, necessitating methods to improve consistency.
• External stabilizing devices may reduce variability in dynamometry outcomes between male and female testers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the intra- and inter-rater reliability of a barre-mounted dynamometer stabilizing device.
• To assess muscle performance in common dance maneuvers using the stabilizing device.

Main Methods:

• Two testers evaluated muscle performance in 11 pre-professional and professional dancers.
• Muscle performance was measured during three dance maneuvers: développé en avant, à la seconde, and arabesque.
• Testing was conducted on two separate occasions to establish intra- and inter-rater reliability.

Main Results:

• Intra-rater reliability for the device was moderate to high (intraclass correlation coefficients: 0.527-0.851).
• Inter-rater reliability was excellent (intraclass correlation coefficients: 0.834-0.953) across all tested positions.
• The device demonstrated consistency in measuring muscle performance in dance-specific movements.

Conclusions:

• The barre-mounted stabilizing device shows potential for consistent assessment of muscle performance in dancers.
• It may mitigate issues related to tester strength or fatigue, improving reliability of results.
• Further research could expand its use for large-scale screening and normative data development in dancers and athletes.