BLOG 2: IS DANCE A SPORT?

by Joanne Mardelle E. Semorlan

September 10, 2021

Source: DanceComps.com

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IS DANCE A SPORT?

According to the Oxford Dictionary, sport is defined as "an activity involving physical exertion and skill in which an individual or team competes against another or others for entertainment." This "criterion" is well-suited to dance. As a result, dancing should be given the same respect and recognition as any other traditional sport. Dancers, too, should be treated with the same respect as other athletes.

Dance is athletic, involves much practice, is competitive, and there is a possibility of getting injured. Injuries can have devastating consequences. A "minor" injury, such as landing or tumbling out of a turn poorly, landing a leap or jump imperfectly, and many more, can quickly turn catastrophic. A slight ankle fracture or a roll might quickly become a shattered ankle. Dancers, like other athletes, must be concerned about getting hurt and take preventative steps.

Dancers devote a significant portion of their lives to perfecting this art form, which requires them to be physically fit. Athletes and dancers both train their bodies to perform the skills demanded of them daily. Dancers train themselves to gain stamina without resting or pausing, ensuring that they can execute various abilities. With that, dancers, like other athletes, must maintain excellent physical condition to perform at their best.

The artistic side of dance is often recognized, and the physical aspect is left unnoticed. Yes, both ballet and modern dance are visually appealing, but focus on the dancer's toned muscles, controlled movement, and memorized choreography instead of the visual appeal. People hold the misconception that dance is just a fun social activity or an after-school activity. What about the blood, sweat, and tears that go into becoming a professional dancer or beating out the competition?

With that in mind, I wholeheartedly support the concept of including more physical activities in the category of sports. A sport is an activity that demands physical strength, endurance, and practice. As a result, dance should also be regarded as a sport!

SOURCES:

Oxford University Press (OUP). (n.d.). sport. Lexico.Com. Retrieved September 8, 2021, from https://www.lexico.com/definition/sport

Russo, G. (2021, March 30). 10 Reasons Dance Is Undeniably a Sport. Dance Spirit. Retrieved on September 8, 2021, from https://www.google.com.ph/amp/s/www.dancespirit.com/amp/dance-is-a-sport-2602872161