Should Dancers Take PE Class- Bring on the Debate!

Should dancers take PE class?

Must be the start of a new school year.

The questions (and request forms) are coming in.

How does this pediatric sports and dance medicine specialist view dancers and Physical Education (PE) class?

The benefits of having dancers take PE class

• Get outside to soak in needed sunlight/Vitamin D to help with bone health
• Meet up with other kids outside of class and dance studios
• Learn different movement patterns and skills- might make the dancer stronger and move more effectively
• Participate in more of a team than more individual focused activity
• Something different- isn’t variety the spice of life?

Potential downsides of having dancers take PE class

• Risk of a trip or fall injury- probably no higher than any other student (unless the dancer is not too graceful off the floor)
• Is PE class a good use of time?
  • Could that time be better spent on finishing homework or with another academic class?
• Could combination of daily PE plus several hours of dance a day increase overuse injury risks?

What’s my bottom line on having dancers take PE class?

Overall, if we are looking at a high quality PE program, that might allow modifications, then I tend to favor having dancers take PE class.

With more kids focusing on single-sport or single-activity choices (like dance) at younger ages, I think a high quality PE class takes on even more potential value.

What is a high quality PE program?

One that teaches skills and movement patterns, especially before beginning any competitive games or challenges.

Not just throwing out balls and equipment with minimal supervision.

Emphasizing and demonstrating good technique with solid warm-up and cool-down exercises.

Tries to offer new or not so common games and activities.

What are potential modifications?

I tend to be big on individual modifications and not a “one-size fits all” approach to sport and activity.

Making small changes in expectations may allow more positive and sustained participation.

So, in the case of having dancers take PE class, let’s review probably the most requested modification….

Should dancers run?

To answer that hot topic question- I’m going to reference the following article:

Your Best Body: Running for Dancers

Now, just don’t think I avoided the question or simply passed the buck.

I referenced that article because:

1. I strongly believe in the premise
2. Mentions some appropriate modifications
   1. Start with walking, then advance to run/walk
   2. May reduce running before a big show or rehearsal schedule
3. Focuses on importance of good technique, shoe selection, with stretching AFTER a run
4. The article quotes Emery Hill, MS, ATC, LMT, MGCP, CWC who is an athletic trainer with the Houston Ballet and was my colleague with USA Volleyball at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
   1. If the advice comes from Emery, trust in it!

How about if I have a dance injury- should I still do PE class?

This is where those good modifications and good communication come into place.

Remember, not “one size fits all.”

Working on medically recommended exercises and stretches during PE class can make good use of time while earning participation credit.

I prefer step-wise return to dance or activity programs, and often use PE class to help in this process.

Flexibility, creativity and a willingness to communicate make the best situations for injured dancers and PE classes.