Dance Biometrics Research Lab

There is a wide range of morphological differences among pre-professional ballet dancers, which can have a profound influence on the ability to execute various ballet movements. The pelvis is a key bone in the body that acts as a center point for balance but also a foundation upon which the body pivots to create movement. All upper-body movements and balance also rely heavily on the position and length of the spine (torso), especially the lumbar vertebrae which are designed to facilitate lateral movements (i.e. side-bends). The relative size of other body parts using in dancing, such as leg length and pelvic bone, also influence the execution of dance movements. For instance, body proportions influence one's center of gravity and thus the body's innate ability to execute dance movements.

While the importance of these body features in executing ballet movements are well known, there is a lack of research supporting this observation in pre-professional dancers. Our research uses biometric analyses using photographs to investigate the influence of body propotions on the execution of dance movements in pre-professional dancers . This information is useful to facilitate a dancer's understanding of how movement is influenced by one's body morphology, injury prevention, and use of training techniques to enhance performance.

We are actively seeking volunteers to participate in our novel research! Participation takes about an hour of your time, and there are many benefits to you and the dance community! The first step is to complete an intake questionnaire and associated paperwork. Then, we schedule a time to visit the TMCC Dance Studio where we will take photographs of you in various dance positions. All information and photographs of participants remain confidential. Please contact Dr. Megan Lahti to get involved (mlahti@tmcc.edu)!