Functional Awareness: Anatomy in Action for Dancers

Dancers train for long hours to condition the body to perform stunning acts of artistry through movement expression. The book "Functional Anatomy for Dancers: A Guide to Movement and Injury Prevention" goes beyond descriptions of the musculoskeletal system to improve performance. It introduces the reflective practice of Functional Awareness® to change daily habits and improve dance skills. Each chapter provides essentials in functional anatomy with over 60 beautiful illustrations and applications to improve specific dance movements. It also contains a mindful practice to integrate the practices into daily life to release unnecessary tension, improve posture, and better support the body outside of dance class and rehearsals.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 136 pages
Publication date: 03 August 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Dancers dedicate themselves to rigorous training, investing countless hours to cultivate their bodies into instruments of breathtaking artistry through the language of movement. However, the demands of daily life beyond the dance studio can inadvertently undermine the diligent efforts invested during classwork and rehearsals. This comprehensive book goes beyond mere descriptions of the musculoskeletal system, aiming to enhance performance. By incorporating the reflective practice of Functional Awareness®, the reader is guided toward transformative changes in their daily habits. This practice teaches strategies to modify everyday actions, showcasing how these subtle shifts can yield profound effects on the ease and fluidity of movement.

In this revised and expanded second edition, the reader is introduced to the transformative practice of Functional Awareness®. Drawing upon foundational knowledge in anatomy and motor learning, the book fosters a deeper understanding of one's unique body structure. Through engaging movement explorations and anatomical visualizations, dancers can refine their skills and acquire lifelong tools for body wellness.

Each chapter offers a comprehensive exploration of functional anatomy, accompanied by over 60 exquisite illustrations to guide the reader through the content. An application is provided to enhance specific dance movements through mental training, utilizing anatomical visualizations and tactile body mapping techniques. Additionally, each chapter concludes with a mindful practice to integrate the practices into daily life, promoting the release of tension, improved posture, and enhanced support for the body beyond the dance studio and rehearsals.

By embracing the teachings of this book, dancers can unlock their full potential, refining their technique, and embodying the beauty and grace of movement in their art.

Weight: 226g
Dimension: 178 x 255 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197586822
Edition number: 2 Revised edition