Developing the Positional Characteristics of a Dance-Specific Star Excursion Balance Test (dsSEBT)

Abstract

Current dynamic balance tests do not sufficiently test all aspects of balance required for dancers in everyday training and performances. The aim of this study was to examine alterations to the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) to ensure a more dance-specific protocol. Twenty-four healthy ballet and contemporary dancers (age: 22.21 ± 6.47 years) participated in completing five different variations of the SEBT. This research implemented upper-body restrictions commonly used in dance settings and tested the effects of two different foot positions, parallel and turned out, as well as two alternate balance surfaces, a foam balance pad and a firm yoga block. Reach distances (percent of limb length), center of pressure (COP, cm2), error scores, and time to completion were measured. Overall, the dance-specific upper body restrictions did not affect the dancer’s ability to reach maximally and achieve a successful trial as there were no significant differences between the original SEBT and the dance-specific SEBT parallel condition (p = 1.00). The foam and block conditions were found to be significantly more difficult due to lower reach distance values, higher COP values, and higher error score values when compared to the original, parallel, and turnout positions (p < 0.05). Lastly, it was discovered that 62.61% of all errors made were in the crossed side and crossed front spokes, suggesting these are the most difficult reach directions to accomplish. The variations used in the study will aid in developing a reliable dance-specific dynamic balance test.

Developing the Temporal and Order Characteristics of a Dance-Specific Star Excursion Balance Test (dsSEBT)

“…Reach values were originally recorded in centimeters then converted and reported as a percentage of limb length using the same formula as previous research. 13,14,21,22,29 COP positioning was measured in medial/lateral and anterior/ posterior directions at the full extension of the reach at each spoke using a Tekscan pressure mat (MatScan, TekScan MA, USA), area of COP was measures in cm 2 . Error scores were determined by the same rating system as used by Beckman and Brouner.…”

“…These developments altered the timing, attentional focus, stability, and reach order. 25,[28][29][30] Rapid postural responses are required to maintain balance in changing, dynamic environments. 31 Remaining balanced while completing fast-paced tasks has been suggested to provide challenges to the neuromuscular system that may not occur during slow-paced tasks.…”

“…All researchers above recommend measuring number of errors in the movement as well as reach distance to get a better sense of the dancers' level of proprioceptive sense, as accuracy is highly desirable in dance training. 25,[28][29][30] Previous research also recommends utilizing force plate center of pressure (COP) data to improve the methodology of test execution and pave the way toward a more valid test for screening balance deficits in dancers. 28,29 While the above studies made crucial steps toward dance-specific alterations and difficulty of the SEBT, all researchers have concluded that current modifications to the SEBT have not conclusively produced a valid dance-specific test.…”

“…25,[28][29][30] Previous research also recommends utilizing force plate center of pressure (COP) data to improve the methodology of test execution and pave the way toward a more valid test for screening balance deficits in dancers. 28,29 While the above studies made crucial steps toward dance-specific alterations and difficulty of the SEBT, all researchers have concluded that current modifications to the SEBT have not conclusively produced a valid dance-specific test. 25,[28][29][30] The aim of this study was to further develop the dsSEBT to intervene with the protocol itself by introducing a new reach order and testing varying tempos.…”

“…28,29 While the above studies made crucial steps toward dance-specific alterations and difficulty of the SEBT, all researchers have concluded that current modifications to the SEBT have not conclusively produced a valid dance-specific test. 25,[28][29][30] The aim of this study was to further develop the dsSEBT to intervene with the protocol itself by introducing a new reach order and testing varying tempos.…”