The amazing connection between dance and mathematics

Image source: tisch.nyu.edu

Mark Hochberg, a student of dance at NYU, has started a series of blogs on his favorite subject to help people develop an understanding and appreciation for this most dynamic of arts.

This blog looks at the fascinating bond between dance and mathematics, both fascinating subjects in their own right.

The issue with math is that as interesting as it can be, to fully appreciate it, most people need to view it from a different perspective. All the numbers can be daunting and often off-putting, and the serious applications of it, such as finance computations and chemical formulas, aren't helping unless a person is well-versed about these fields.

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However, there have been other unconventional fields wherein math can be applied. Music and, in extension, dance are two of these fields that give mathematics a different color. Today, more and more people are finding interest in math because of dance, and scholars are looking at rhythm and beat to be the vehicles that usher in the marriage of both.

People may not know it, but all the toe-tapping and head-bobbing do something to their brains. In fact, many people subconsciously count musical measures while dancing. And when they finally become aware of the musical measures of the song and all the many variants of it, NYU student Mark Hochberg mentions that they become aware of how math figures into music and dance, opening an entirely different universe for them.

How can Pilates improve a dancer's physique?

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Discipline and physical fitness are of utmost importance to dancers. NYU freshman student Mark Hochberg says that aside from practicing choreography, exercises like Pilates contribute to keeping their bodies in the best condition. How can this method of movement help dancers stay in top shape?

As someone passionate about dance, Mark Hochberg, NYU student, doesn't mind practicing for hours. Learning choreographies and perfecting it could take time. However, a dancer's body can also be prone to injuries. Through time, they can experience muscle pain and lose their flexibility. This makes Pilates a good supplemental training for them as this low-impact workout focuses on core strength. Developing this area also leads to conditioning other muscles and contributing to honing the whole body's balance and flexibility.

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While many choreographies can be considered high-impact, the low-impact movements of Pilates allow a dancer's body to release tension and stress in certain areas of the body. Compared to other exercises, NYU dance student Mark Hochberg explains that Pilates doesn't add bulk to the body, which is important in keeping with the professional dance aesthetic. The discipline allows dancers to elongate the body for more graceful movements. It also promotes postural alignment that is important in honing flexibility and preventing injuries.

Breathing control and endurance are also important for professional dancers. With multiple rehearsals and performances, the exhaustion can take a toll on the body. Pilates can train dancers on proper breathing while keeping their form for the duration of a performance. Supplemental training with Pilates also promotes quick muscle recovery that will allow dancers to maintain their stable physique for years.