Title of Project |
Variability and coordination in ballet dancers. |
Chief Supervisor |
Dr Luke Hopper |
Other Supervisors |
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Project Outline |
The function of variability in the development and maintenance of healthy movement patterns is receiving growing interest in the movement sciences. Although highly variable movement can be detrimental to movement performance, a degree of variability may have implications for the adaptability of human stability under external perturbations and in addition minimise repetitive stress to loaded musculoskeletal structures. Ballet training involves the development of elite motor control through specifically defined ranges of joint motion. Although elite ballet dancers demonstrate high levels of movement stability, ballet performance is conducted in highly constrained and rehearsed environments. Ballet related epidemiology has also reported a high incidence of overuse related lower limb injuries. Therefore the nature of ballet training may potentially serve to reduce movement variability which may have implications for movement adaptability and musculoskeletal health. The investigation of variability and coordination in ballet dancers may improve the current body of knowledge regarding the health and performance benefits of movement variability. This information may be applied in a clinical setting both in dance and for the broader population. |
Suitable for |
Honours, Masters and PhD students |
Essential qualifications |
Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science OR |
Essential skills |
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Additional skills |
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Contact |
Luke Hopper; luke.hopper@nd.edu.au; 9433 0974 |