The Pilates Method and Ballet Technique: Applications in the Dance Studio

Abstract

Summary There are many body therapies from which dancers may choose in order to gain and maintain strength, flexibility, and balance and to avoid injury or facilitate rehabilitation from injury. The questions are: which system is best for the given student, and how can educators incorporate the many somatic perspectives into their curriculums. This article describes how Pilates can be integrated into ballet technique class. Attention is given to the potential physical benefits of Pilates, how Pilates mat work can support the movement objectives of a ballet technique class, and the technical and anatomical knowledge gained by the instructor and student through the use of the method.