Physiological Profiles And Training Demands In High-level Female Collegiate Dancers

Abstract

Little is known about the physical status of high level dancers despite the physical demands placed upon them, which include explosive movements, quick changes in direction, callisthenic movements, and weight bearing interactions with others. Through the development of a physiological profile, more can be understood about the training status of these performers. PURPOSE: To establish a physiological profile of high-level female collegiate dancers through laboratory-based testing and monitor typical training-load associated with their classes. METHODS: College aged female dancers (N=17; Mweight= 59.8 ± 6.6 kg; Mage=19.9± 1.3 yrs ; Mheight=1.6 ± 0.1m) enrolled in a premier university performing arts program were tested over a two-day span to develop a physiological profile. Day 1 consisted of body composition assessment via BODPOD as well as maximal treadmill graded exercise test (GXT) to assess VO2max and ventilatory threshold (VT) via direct gas exchange. Day 2 consisted of vertical jump (VJ) to assess power and a Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT) on a cycle ergometer with a load set at 7.5% body mass to assess anaerobic power. Following testing, two classes were monitored for training intensity and energy expenditure using the Polar Team2 Pro System. Dancers were monitored during two typical ballet classes and modern dance classes. RESULTS: The dancers tested had an average body fat percentage of 24.1 ± 4.2 %, and a lean body mass of 46.8± 8.5 kg. The average VO2max was 42.9 ±4.27 (ml O2/kg/min)) with a VT of 76.1 ± 6.5 % of VO2max. The power output from the WAnT was 518.9 ± 177.26 W. Dancers had an average training load of 41.3 ± 17.4 for ballet and 46.3 ± 26.8 for modern dance while expending 400 ± 116.2 kcal and 421.5 ± 149.8 kcal respectively. Approximately 1.3 ± 2.7% of time in ballet and 3.8 ± 7.8 % of time in modern dance was spent at an intensity at or above VT. CONCLUSION: The dancers had a physiological profile that was notably below average compared to female Division I power endurance athletes, with a higher body fat percentage and lower aerobic and anaerobic capacity. These results may shed light on the high injury rate often seen in this population. The low training loads during the typical class suggest that supplemental conditioning would likely be necessary and beneficial both for reducing injury and improving performance.