Date of Award

5-5-2017

Degree Type

Thesis

Department

Theatre and Dance

Director of Thesis

Tanya Wideman-Davis

First Reader

Olivia Waldrop

Second Reader

Olivia Waldrop

Abstract

The dictionary defines cross training as, “the action or practice of engaging in two or more sports or types of exercise in order to improve fitness or performance in one’s main sport” (“cross-train”). While ballet dancers may look physically fit and slim, ballet dancers do not always give their bodies proper care. This thesis will explain the elements of ballet training that are crucial for development as an artist and a dancer. It will also discuss the benefits of cross training for ballet dancers and how this should be incorporated into the ballet curriculum. Finally, this thesis will discuss the relevancy of the current research regarding the dance program here at the University of South Carolina. This thesis discusses various cross training exercises that can be incorporated into the three distinct levels of dancers: young dancers, pre-professional dancers, and professional dancers. While the entirety of the effects of cross training on ballet dancers are still being discussed within the field of dance medicine, it has been proven that cross training is indeed beneficial and necessary for dancers at all levels of training.

First Page

1

Last Page

37

Rights

© 2017, Allison Holland

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