Physical Skills test

What are physical skills? (Definition)

Physical skills strengthen the body (balance, control, stamina). They also make the body more flexible (increase the range of joint mobility). Physical skills develop coordination, and they also develop awareness of body placement or posture (alignment).

What are the 8 physical skills?

1. Balance

2. Flexibility

3. Coordination

4. Alignment of the body

5. Control

6. Transference of weight

7. Strength

8. Stamina

Define Balance

Balance refers to the ability to maintain the body in perfect equilibrium through effective awareness of muscle activity. Balance does not only refer to movements which are sustained or held over a long time, balance can also be evident in movements such as turns, falls, and recoveries, elevated movements, and landings.

Define Flexibility

Flexibility refers to the engaged joints' ability to move freely through a full range of motion. Flexibility is evident in movements involving all joints, including the neck, shoulder, wrist, hip, knee, ankle, and spine.

Define Coordination

Coordination refers to the patterning of different body parts and their different relationships.

Define Alignment of the body

It refers to the relationship of the skeleton to the base of support, and the line of gravity.

Define Control

Refers to the ability to manage a variety of movement categories, with concentrated awareness of muscular activity.

Define Transference of weight

Refers to going from one foot to two feet, two feet to one foot, and one from one foot to other.

Define Strength

Refers to the power which a dancer uses to execute various movement categories.

Define Stamina

Stamina refers to the maintenance of physical exertion executed throughout the dance.

Name one exercise completed in a warm up

Running on the spot:

Running on the spot allows you to get your body warm and controlled so you are able to move in a coordinated motion when dancing.

Why is warming up important in dance?

Warming up in dance is important so you prevent yourself from injury and are able to dance to your full ability. When we warm up we also stretch which can help with flexibility and control, one of the eight physical skills.