Another peek at assessments

In addition to the agility assessments I shared in my latest post, I'd like to share photos of two additional types of assessment we completed:

STRENGTH ASSESSMENTS -- the students worked with partners who used resistance to measure the strength of opposing muscle groups, like the quadriceps and the hamstrings.  Take a look at Alexia and Kai preparing to measure flexion and extension of the knee.

Students also completed isometric abdominal testing both prone (on their forearms) and on each side. Take a look from the side.

FLEXIBILITY ASSESSMENTS -- flexibility is obviously important in the world of dance and students are generally wishing for increased flexibility.  With an increase in strength we often see a decrease in flexibility so it's important to work simultaneously on these and not let one overcome the other.  The students completed two types of testing: hamstring and lateral flexion. This measures the flexibility in the back muscles that help the dancer port de bras (bend) to the side.   In the next photo, Lily is getting ready to measure Erin's lateral flexion to the side. 

At the completion of our program, the students will do a week four post test to see what has improved during their time at our intensive.  Many students said "I had 12, is that good?" and my answer was, we are measuring you now, and will compare that against you in a couple of weeks.  Each dancer in encouraged to track their OWN progress and to set realistic goals for their own particular body.