e-Research: A Journal of Undergraduate Work
Abstract
As college dance majors, the investigators have witnessed firsthand the effects that sleep and the lack thereof can have on the performance quality of University level dancing. It has been shown that lack of sleep can compromise nearly every physiological process such as memory, coordination, metabolism, and new learning (Wozny 2008). Studies on disruptions of the human circadian rhythms have shown that athletes involved in endeavors where sleep is restricted or totally deprived have severe consequences on behavior and performance. (Edwards 2007). However, the environment of college dance programs is different than athletics due to there being no off season. Dancers train up to eighteen hours per week in various technique styles and then rehearse up to 12 hours per week on top of full academic loads. Sleep many times is overlooked or limited as deadlines and performances are fast approaching. There has not been substantial research done into the area of dancer sleep patterns and its affect on the dancer's body.
Recommended Citation
Nicks, Beth and Price, Jacque
(2014)
"Sleep patterns in collegiate dancers,"
e-Research: A Journal of Undergraduate Work: Vol. 2:
No.
1, Article 4.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.chapman.edu/e-Research/vol2/iss1/4