Relationship between muscular imbalance and pelvic posture during araimandi in Bharatanatyam dancers

ABSTRACT

The thigh, hip and lower back have been common sights of injuries in Bharatanatyam dancers. The study investigates the relationship between muscular activity levels of the leg and pelvic posture during araimandi. Electromyography(EMG) and postural analysis were used to measure the activation in three selected muscle groups(Quadriceps, Hamstrings and Gluteus Maximus) and the pelvic posture study in seven dancers. Depending on the training level, EMG tracings indicated that dancers indicated higher activation of the Quadriceps or Gluteus Maximus. The Hamstrings remained the least activation muscle in all dancers. Thus, due to the difference in activation levels, muscular imbalance may occur in Bharatanatyam dancers. Further, anterior pelvic tilt was the most commonly observed misalignment. The movement biomechanics, faulty movement adaptation, and pelvic orientation primarily influenced muscle activation patterns. The dancer’s training level and compensatory strategies influenced the pelvic posture while performing the araimandi movement. Although both muscular imbalance and pelvic alignment influenced each other, the pelvis’s orientation significantly affected the leg muscles’ activation patterns. Thus, the study established a relationship between muscular imbalance and pelvic alignment. Further, applications of these findings to dance training have been discussed.

Keywords:

• Dance Science
• Bharatanatyam
• Teaching-learning
• pedagogy

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Additional information

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Bhargavi Gopalan

Bhargavi Gopalan is a dance educator and dance scientist with a strong foundation in Bharatanatyam. With an MSc in Dance Science from the University of Bedfordshire and training from the Dance Education Laboratory(New York), she combines pedagogical proficiency with scientific knowledge. Bhargavi believes that a participatory approach to dance enhances learning and promotes inclusivity and self-expression. She teaches classes and workshops for adults and older adults to actively engage and participate in the art of dance. Her areas of interest include embedding safe dance practices in the classroom and fostering community dance practices that bring people together. Currently, Bhargavi serves as a dance faculty member at an international school in India, where she adopts an integrated approach to teaching dance in the primary years, nurturing the students' creativity and appreciation for movement.