The effect of classical ballet and contemporary dance training on hip extensor flexibility and strength in novice dancers: A pilot study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of an 11-week intervention of classical ballet and contemporary dance training on hip extensor flexibility and strength in college-aged students with no prior dance experience. An experimental group of college students enrolled in an introductory college dance course (n=22) were compared to a control group of college students (n=7). Measurements of flexibility and strength were taken at baseline and after the 11-week intervention, which consisted of 160min of classical ballet or contemporary dance technique training per week. A one-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed statistically significant changes in bilateral hip extensor flexibility in the experimental group (p<0.001 bilaterally) and in right hip extensor strength (p<0.05). The current findings suggest that participating in classical ballet and contemporary training may increase bilateral hip extensor flexibility and right sided hip extensor strength in college-aged students, which could potentially be beneficial for athletic and fitness training. Additionally, the atmosphere of live music, social support uniquely found in a dance class, may be useful for athletes in training in their respective sport.