Background It is commonly accepted that dancers are undoubtedly athletes, with ballet perhaps the most demanding
dance form. No previous study has sought to define the physical attributes most desired for classical ballet by professional
companies and vocational schools. These are likely to include
both aesthetic features and attributes that reduce the risk of
injury as well as enhance performance.
Method An initial survey question using the modified Delphi
technique was sent using Opinio Survey Software to a selected
international expert panel. This was drawn both from those
involved in selection of elite professional ballet dancers, and
the international medical professionals involved in the care of
dancers. The first questionnaire was open-ended to scope for
all the physical attributes most favoured by the professional
experts.
Results There were 148 responses from the panel of international experts. In total 34 physical attributes were suggested.
The 2 most recommended physical criteria for selection into
the profession were overall flexibility and overall strength.
These results are discussed in the context of the published literature on the mechanics, anatomy and physiology of ballet.
Conclusion Flexibility and strength are the 2 features most
sought after in elite ballet dancers