Dancing Bodies

Course Content:

This module serves to expand students? knowledge of anatomy and physiology and its
application to dance practice and safe dance practice.

Issues of the ?Healthier Dancer? (Dance UK) and the area of dance science will be features
of the module, as well as how to plan and deliver effective dance classes / rehearsals and
how to implement the progression of these classes.

The module will also complement and enhance all practical work undertaken within
other modules, through the development of the students? functional understanding of
anatomy and physiology.

Topics covered include:
? Posture and balance
? Functional anatomy and physiology
? Contemporary dance techniques
? Somatic techniques such as yoga, tai chi, pilates and how they support
dance training
? Body conditioning
? Physical articulation and control
? Injury prevention and safe practice
? Planning of studio practice and progressive training programmes.

Autumn semester content:
? Practical: Contemporary technique / body conditioning class
Theory: Warming up / Warming down and Bones!
? Practical: Contemporary technique / body conditioning class
Theory: The Spine and Vertebral Column
? Practical: Contemporary technique / body conditioning class
Theory: Alignment and Joints
? Practical: Contemporary technique / body conditioning class
Theory: Joint Movements / Actions and Anatomical Terminology
? Practical: Contemporary technique / body conditioning class
Theory: Core Stability, Breath and Mechanics of Breathing
? Practical: Contemporary technique / body conditioning class
Theory: Muscles part I
? Practical: Contemporary technique / body conditioning class
Theory: Injury Prevention and Safe Practice (with guest physiotherapist)
? Practical: Contemporary technique / body conditioning class
Theory: Assessment preparation for lecture demo: How to prepare a class warm ?
up part I
? Practical: Contemporary technique / body conditioning class
Theory: Assessment preparation for lecture demo: How to prepare a class /warmup
part II
? Practical: Contemporary technique / body conditioning class

Teaching: This module is delivered over 1 x 3 hour weekly session (practical and lecture)

Assessment:
Study Option 1:
Portfolio (equivalent to 2500-3000 words):
1) 1 x 1 ½ hour contemporary dance technique/body conditioning class assessment: 40%
2) 8 - 12 minute lecture-demonstration, which includes an element of teaching and will
demonstrate anatomical knowledge: 30%
3) 1 x 1 hour written anatomy and physiology examination: 30%

Study Option 1 = Whole Year Return to top.
Study Option 2 = Autumn
Study Option 3 = Spring/summer