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Trinity Laban Dance Science has undertaken extensive research into dancers in training. We have conducted national research into talent development and identification, developed a comprehensive screening and profiling programme for dancers and created the first dance specific tests of dancer fitness.

Click on the links below to read more about our recent projects:

Identification and Training of Exceptionally Talented Young Dancers

The Department of Education and The Leverhulme Trust funded this ground-breaking three-year longitudinal dance science project at Trinity Laban, which examined the processes of developing talent in dancers aged 10-18 years.

Screening research

Our screening programme comprises physiological, biomechanical and psychological profiling to determine effective injury prevention support and provide guidance to dancers so that they can feel empowered about their own progress and development.

 

Dancers and Disabilities 

Trinity Laban was commissioned by Dance4opens in a new window to undertake a research project examining dance provision and progression routes for young dancers with disabilities.

 

Dance Specific Fitness Tests
Dance Specific Fitness Tests (DSFT) were developed by dance science researchers at Trinity Laban and University of Wolverhampton. These tests are designed to provide valid methods of measuring dancers’ fitness across time. There are currently three fitness tests: one contemporary test, one ballet test that uses ballet movement vocabulary and a high intensity test.

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Dance Specific Fitness Test

The Dance Specific Fitness Tests DVD/CD pack is available for purchase and includes full DVD instructions, demonstrations and music CD to accompany the tests.

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Dancer performing in TL studio with neon lights

Somatics and Creativity Research

By exploring dance practice in its broadest sense, we examine not only the disciplines of physiology, biomechanics and psychology but also the role of somatic practices and embodied and perceptual processes as alternative, relevant ways of knowing, learning and creating dance. This can necessitate a range of methodologies and interdisciplinary approaches.

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Pile of young dancers connected in a dance studio

Dance and Arts for Health and Wellbeing Research

As a physical activity and a creative art form, dance can make a vital contribution to the healthy-living agenda. It has the capacity to provide an active, non-competitive form of exercise that can positively affect physical health and psychological wellbeing across different populations in the community.

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Musician being analysed with a gas analyser whilst playing the drums

Musicians Health and Training Research

Trinity Laban is committed to the development of music performance science research. We have led funded projects into musician injury prevention and performance enhancement, undertaken studies into the physiological demands of Musical Theatre and was one of the 3 UK conservatoires to collaborate on a large-scale 4 year project into musicians’ health and wellbeing.

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Dancer performing in a studio with gas analyser on face.

Student Research

Our current students are undertaking exciting projects within the field of Dance Science. For more information and how to apply to participate, follow the link below:

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Dancer in the studio wearing gas analyser in deep lunge sideways

Current Department Research

Trinity Laban Dance Science are currently undertaking a range of research and knowledge engagement activity in the area of dance and performance science. For information on current projects including related outputs and resources and how to take part, follow the link below:

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