Joseph Pilates founded his work on these basic principles: precision, flow, centering, breath, control and concentration. All of these basic principles are applicable in the field of dance, as well. Dancers of all ages can benefit from these principles of movement and gain strength, flexibility, and trunk stabilization. There are age appropriate Pilates exercises that can be adapted into the dance class. These dance specific exercises are suitable for ballet, contemporary, Irish and musical theatre dance.
Young dancers between the ages of 7 and 11 are growing and in need of early trunk stabilization skills to better understand body placement and enhance their balance skills. At this age it is difficult to understand how to hold their 'tummy muscles' and sometimes it can technically hold them back. With a few, basic Pilates exercises for their age and technique level, they can learn to hold their posture, correctly. Then these little dancers can enjoy their barre work, learn to turn more efficiently and jump more effectively.Their technique can advance more quickly which will enhance their competitive skills.
Young teens can also benefit from centering and core work to increase their postural awareness. Having better posture can increase their self-esteem. Age appropriate Pilates exercises designed specifically for dance can also be used as an effective injury prevention tool. These exercises focus on the benefits of proper alignment and flexibility, which can reduce the risks of injury.
This, Pilates Curriculum workshop offers several exercises for each class offered at your studio. They can be incorporated into your studio's curriculum for only a few minutes in each class. A pre-performance and/or pre-competition warm-up is included as well. Take the opportunity to increase your student's strength and agility, which inturn will benefit them on stage!
For more information about the workshops, or to schedule a workshop for your organization, please contact us directly by email at jacqui@dancemedicine.net.
Check out other workshops available from Dance Medicine Academic Seminars:
Other options for workshops are available.
Workshops can be adjusted and tailored to your specific needs.