Dance and Its Effects on the Human Body

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Recommended: Compare and contrast classical ballet and modern dance

Dance is to move the body in a way that goes with the rhythm and style of music that is being played, or to perform: A beautiful art form, a fluid morsel of perfection demonstrated by statues hand crafted flawlessly seen all over the world. This sport is not one that can be achieved by anyone, it requires vast amounts of talent and practice. As a recreational activity, dance has both a positive and a negative effect on the human body and mind.
My whole life I have heard it said that dancers are not athletes; this statement has been proven wrong. Dancers understand their bodies more than anyone; it is the base of all training. This awareness brings forth an athleticism demonstrated by few. It is said that, “Just as one practices a religion or a profession, one practices dance: the action and engagement in the action defines and creates the art”(Deagon 2). The awareness and strength are created before the movement even begins. Balance and coordination is detrimental; one must learn to use their core to even attempt to gracefully develop their story with movement. Yet, it may be observed that this core strength is enhanced through the sport, due to the fast paced moves. Along with the abdominal and back benefits comes agility and coordination. Yes, it is true that most dancers are klutzy and seem to lack much dexterity when off the stage, but once this passionate artist steps foot into their element, you can simply say they are walking on air. Several things occur at once, bringing multitasking into play. Pirouettes, or as the public knows them, “spins”, require increased strength in the upper and lower extremities as well as the synchronization of the head spotting a definite location. Not many people can execute thi...

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...mber 20, 2013, from http://www.personal.psu.edu/afr3/blogs/siowfa13/2013/09/we-all-know-that-excercise.html
Deagon, A. (n.d.). Dance, Body, Universe. Dance, Body, Universe. Retrieved December 20, 2013, from http://people.uncw.edu/deagona/raqs/DBU
PhD, G. K., & M.S, D. K. (n.d.). Injury, Stress, and Perfectionism in Young Dancers and Gymnasts - By Donna Krasnow, M.S., Lynda Mainwaring, Ph.D., C.Psych., and Gretchen Kerr, Ph.D.. Injury, Stress, and Perfectionism in Young Dancers and Gymnasts - By Donna Krasnow, M.S., Lynda Mainwaring, Ph.D., C.Psych., and Gretchen Kerr, Ph.D.. Retrieved December 20, 2013, from http://www.citraining.com/Injury-Stress-Perfectionism.html
What Effects Does Dancing Have on the Human Body?. (n.d.). LIVESTRONG.COM. Retrieved December 20, 2013, from http://www.livestrong.com/article/533867-what-effects-does-dancing-have-on-the-human-body/

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