Very
little research has been conducted clarifying the fitness benefits of using
dance as a primary form of activity. The
primary aim of this study, therefore, was to examine the differences in fitness
levels between college-age dancers and college-age non-dancers. Ten volunteers (5 dancers; 5 non-dancers)
participated in this study. Each
participant’s fitness components were assessed within a one-hour period. More specifically, the five components of
fitness assessed were: body composition (7-site skinfold), cardiorespiratory
endurance (Rockport 1-mile walk test), muscular strength (handgrip
dynamometer), muscular endurance (push-ups), and flexibility (sit-and-reach
box). Results revealed no statistical
difference (p > .05) between
dancers and non-dancers in any of the five components of fitness. In conclusion, given the results of this
study and the small sample size, dancers are not more physically fit than
non-dancers.