32 Dance Anatomy and Kinesiology
Study Questions and Applications
- Describe how long bones grow in width and in length.
- List and locate, on your own body, the bones that constitute the (a) axial skeleton, (b) upper
extremity, and (c) lower extremity. - Classify each of the bones that constitute the lower extremity as long, short, flat, or irregu-
lar. - Standing in anatomical position, demonstrate three dance movements that occur in each of
the following planes: sagittal, frontal, and horizontal. - Review the joint movements described in table 1.8 and select two movements from dance that
exemplify each of these joint movements. - Draw a typical synovial joint and label its components. Then, describe the function of each
of these components. - Contrast and compare the types of joints found in the upper extremity and lower extrem-
ity. - Describe how the presence of loose- and close-packed positions of the joints could be helpful
to meet differing movement demands of joints required by dance. - Design a movement sequence that incorporates both open and closed kinematic chain move-
ments for the hip, knee, and ankle. Identify when these joints are working in an open and a
closed kinematic chain. - A dancer has been having a difficult time performing a pushing movement of the arm with
the desired aesthetic. Her teacher has noted that her movement looks “jerky” and lacks the
desired smooth coordination.
a. Describe what joint motions should be occurring at the shoulder, elbow, and wrist.
b. Describe how the idea of a kinematic chain relates to this movement.
c. Describe how the movement aesthetic would be different under the following conditions:- Sequential movement starting from the distal and proceeding to the proximal joint
- Sequential movement starting from the proximal joint and proceeding to the distal
joint - Movement beginning at the elbow, followed by movement at the other two joints
- Simultaneous movement at all three joints so that the end position of each joint is
reached at the same moment
d. Identify appropriate cues that could be utilized to try to implement the desired technique
adjustments.