There is a huge need for comprehensive quality dance information to educate young dancers about their bodies, to extend their boundaries and their perception of what they are capable of, and learn about the prevention and treatment of injuries. Far too often in the dance community, the old adage of, “if it hurts, it is good for you” is far too prevalent, and despite the many wonderful teachers who embrace safe dance techniques, many young dancers are getting serious injuries at very young ages. Many young dancers cannot differentiate between the ‘pain’ of a stretch, and ‘injury pain’. They are often ‘working into’ areas best left to heal, and not addressing the real causes of their aches and pains.
The development of an extensive online dance community has enabled the spread of essential information to the dancers who need it most. No matter how remote the dancers location, and what standard of teaching he/she is able to get, as long as they have access to an internet connection, there is the possibility to learn so much about their own body, as well as techniques to advance their dancing. From beginner’s ballet, to learning pointe work, and moving on into a professional dance career, there is access to advice and information as well as courses and products to help them gain the edge needed to excel in this demanding world.
Knowledge is a powerful tool; however anatomical knowledge is just the beginning. The dance education programs designed by Perfect Form Physiotherapy in Sydney, Australia, also teach dancers how to explore their own bodies on multiple levels. The more a dancer can feel his or her own body, the more he/she can express him/herself, and the further they can take their audience on a journey.
No matter where young dancers aspirations lie, all of the knowledge learned will help foster a great appreciation for their own body, and serve them well into a professional career, and long after their dancing days are over. The empowerment gained by understanding their own body, and the power they have to change it is priceless. Understanding movement, anatomy, and ways of training are essential tools in the toolkit of anyone who is to succeed in any area of life. The importance of physical health is grossly undervalued, and is not taught in any formal schooling curriculum.
The recent advances in technology have allowed the vision of a progressive worldwide movement in safe dance practices that was once just a dream, much closer to reality.