Rethinking Dance Training: Should We delay rigorous training?

In the world of dance, it’s common to start rigorous training early, often in childhood, especially when it comes to being classical trained. The idea is that years of technical practice help dancers develop the skill and stamina needed for a career in dance. But in recent years, experts have started to question whether beginning formal training so young is actually beneficial—or whether it could be contributing to long-term injuries and shortened careers.

During the last few weeks I have attended some fantastic talks with key leaders within the industry where the timing of training has been questioned. This article will explore why starting dance training later could actually be a better approach for many dancers and why it may lead to healthier, more sustainable careers.

The Early Start Tradition: A Path to Excellence or Injury?

Traditionally, dancers are encouraged to begin their training as early as possible. It’s true that many iconic dancers and top-tier professionals began their training in childhood, devoting countless hours to developing technique, strength, and flexibility. Yet, the intense physical demands placed on young bodies can often come at a cost. Research shows that pushing young bodies through rigorous training can lead to repetitive stress injuries, muscle and tendon strain, and even burnout. While some dancers thrive under this early regimen, many struggle with chronic injuries or eventually drop out of dance due to the wear and tear they experience early on. Together with the increased risk to injury, many directors of companies are not employing graduate dancers because they are not 'emotionally' ready. They do not have the life experience or agency for the roles and demands expected of them. Given these concerns, experts are beginning to ask: should we change the timeline for formal dance training?

How Delaying Training Could Benefit Dancers

Starting formal dance training a little later could reduce these risks significantly. By giving young dancers time to build foundational strength, flexibility, and coordination in a broader range of activities before committing to intense dance training, they may be better prepared for the physical and mental demands of the art form. Here’s how starting later can actually benefit dancers:

1. Reduced Injury Risk Studies suggest that bodies that haven’t gone through premature, intense strain are less prone to injuries later. Early physical development can often be focused on general fitness, balance, and flexibility rather than intense specialisation. This approach not only allows young dancers to build a solid, healthy foundation but also reduces the wear and tear on joints, muscles, and ligaments.

2. A Longer Career with Greater Longevity Many dancers today are performing well into their 30s or 40s, a trend that wasn’t as common in previous generations. By delaying intense training, dancers may be able to sustain longer, healthier careers. Instead of peaking in their early 20s, dancers can reach new artistic heights throughout their careers, adding to the richness of their performances as they grow.

3. Broader Skill Sets and Enhanced Artistry Delaying formal training doesn’t mean avoiding the arts altogether. In fact, it’s an opportunity to explore other areas—like acting, music, gymnastics, or even creative play—that can make dancers more well-rounded artists. These experiences contribute to a dancer’s expressive abilities and can deepen their understanding of rhythm, timing, and performance, all of which enhance their artistry when they finally commit to dance training.

4. A Focus on Healthy Biomechanics and Injury Prevention Many dance programmes are already beginning to prioritise injury prevention and biomechanics education, recognising that body awareness and healthy movement patterns are crucial for dancers. By focusing on proper alignment and injury prevention before introducing technical skills, young dancers can approach their craft in a more mindful, sustainable way.

   
   

Changing the Approach to Dance Training for the Future

The idea of starting formal dance training later aligns with a shift toward a more sustainable approach to dance education. Rather than pushing dancers to master complex technical skills at a young age, many educators and health experts are advocating for a focus on physical literacy, injury prevention, and artistry first. This mindset encourages dancers to enter the profession with a deeper connection to their craft, and a greater likelihood of enjoying a long, fulfilling career. By pushing back the timeline for formal training, dancers may have a better chance of cultivating longevity in their careers and approaching their art with more passion and resilience.

Final Thoughts: A New Path to Dance Excellence?

Rethinking dance training timelines is a bold move, but it could be a game-changer for future generations of dancers. With fewer injuries, more diverse skills, and an approach that values physical and mental well-being, dancers may be able to enjoy healthier, more sustainable careers than ever before.

In a world where the pressure to perform is high, embracing this more holistic approach could be the key to unlocking not only longer careers but more enriched, expressive artistry on stage.

Whether you’re a dancer, a teacher, or simply a fan of the art, it’s worth considering: sometimes, a slower start may lead to a stronger, more enduring future in dance.

I'd love to hear any thoughts on this topic. There are no easy answers here, but definitely a subject worth discussing. Please feel free to comment, share this blog, follow me on social media or email me!

Here's to sustaining healthier dancers, and longer careers.