The physical features suitable for classical ballet training

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

The aim of this study was to determine the prerequisite physical features of classical ballet education.

METHODS:

Students who enrolled and were rejected for the applications of State Conservatory Ballet Main Art Branch in the academic year 2013–2014 and 2014–2015 were compared with their exam results. This study involves defining the physical ability and determining physical fitness by using Eurofit tests including the Flamingo Balance test (FB), Plate Tapping (PT), Sit and Reach (SITR), Standing Broad Jump (SBJ), Handgrip test (HG), Sit Up in 30 Seconds (SU) and Shuttle Run 10 $\times$ 5 meter (SR), Heath-Carter somatotyping method and anthropometric measurements which determine ballet students’ body type and physical abilities. Sixty-nine girls between 8–11 years old who applied for ballet education at the State Conservatory Ballet Main Art Branch were included in the study. While the average of age, height and weight measurements of enrolled students were 9.40 $\pm$ 0.74 year, 1.38 $\pm$ 0.08 m and 30.03 $\pm$ 4.73 kg respectively, the same dimensions were found in rejected students, i.e. 9.79 $\pm$ 0.94 year, 1.40 $\pm$ 0.10 m and 35.59 $\pm$ 7.31 kg respectively.

RESULTS:

Measurements of diameter, circumference and subcutaneous fat were lower ( $p<$ 0.05) for enrolled students. The major body type of enrolled students was identified as mesomorphy, whereas the major body type of rejected students was identified as endomorphy. All dimensions of the Eurofit tests, except the strength test, were significantly different in enrolled students ( $p<$ 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS:

The parameters used in this study can be convenient in objectively evaluating classical ballet education.