Dance Anatomy

Quadriceps

Large Muscles on the front of the Thigh used for Running, Jumping, and Straightening the Leg.

Hamstrings

Muscles on the back of the Thigh that help bend the Knee and power movement.

Calf Muscles

Muscles in the Lower Leg that help push the body off the Ground when Walking, Running, or Jumping.

Stabilizing Muscles

Smaller Muscles that help Control Balance and Keep the body steady during movement.

Gluteus Medius

A Hip Muscle that helps with Balance and Keeping Proper Alignment when Standing or Moving.

Core Muscles

Muscles in the Abdomen and Lower Back that support Posture and Balance.

Femur

The Thigh Bone, the Longest and Strongest Bone in the body.

Tibia

The Shin Bone that supports Body Weight in the Lower Leg.

Joint

Where two Bones meet and allow Movement (ex. Knee, Hip, Ankle).

Turnout

A Ballet Position where the Legs rotate outward from the Hips.

Range of Motion

How far a Joint can move in Different directions.

Alignment

The correct positioning of Bones and Joints in the body.