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Flexibility is a vital component of fitness in a dancer's training and performance - NSC Dance Studies - Question 5 - 2016 - Paper 1
Question 5
Flexibility is a vital component of fitness in a dancer's training and performance. 5.1 Describe FOUR factors that may limit a dancer's flexibility. DO NOT give one... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Flexibility is a vital component of fitness in a dancer's training and performance - NSC Dance Studies - Question 5 - 2016 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe FOUR factors that may limit a dancer's flexibility.
Answer
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Muscle Tightness: Over time, dancers may experience tight muscles due to repetitive movements, which can restrict their overall flexibility.
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Injury History: Previous injuries can lead to scar tissue or joint stiffness, negatively impacting a dancer's ability to stretch effectively.
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Age: As dancers age, the elasticity of muscles and tendons decreases, making it harder to achieve the same range of motion as in youth.
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Training Frequency: Inadequate training or a lack of consistent stretching can prevent dancers from maintaining the desired level of flexibility.
Step 2
Analyse FOUR benefits of a good level of flexibility that may contribute to a dancer's performance.
Answer
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Improved Range of Motion: Enhanced flexibility allows dancers to perform a wider variety of movements, which can enhance choreography and expressiveness.
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Injury Prevention: Flexible muscles and joints are less likely to be injured, allowing dancers to perform at their best without setbacks.
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Better Posture: Flexibility can improve a dancer’s overall posture, which is crucial for executing movements with grace and precision.
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Enhanced Performance Quality: A dancer with good flexibility can achieve more aesthetically pleasing lines and positions, contributing to a visually captivating performance.
Step 3
Indicate THREE essential do-rules that a dancer should follow in his/her stretching programme.
Answer
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Warm-Up Before Stretching: Dancers should always warm up their bodies to increase blood flow to muscles, which can prevent injuries.
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Hold Stretches for Adequate Time: Each stretch should be held for at least 20-30 seconds to effectively elongate muscles and improve flexibility.
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Breathe Deeply: Concentrating on breathing while stretching helps to relax the body and allows for a deeper stretch.
Step 4
Indicate THREE essential don't-rules that a dancer should follow in his/her stretching programme.
Answer
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Do Not Rush Through Stretches: Quick, jerky movements can lead to injuries; each stretch should be performed slowly and gently.
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Avoid Bouncing or Ballistic Movements: Bounce stretching can cause muscle tears or strains; static stretching is safer and more effective.
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Never Stretch to the Point of Pain: Dancers should stretch to a comfortable point; pushing to the limit can lead to injuries and setbacks.