Fit to Dance?

The report of the National Inquiry into Dancers' Health and Injury Dance is a high risk business. Injury can end a career. As in sport, damage can be done through accidents or excessive demands on the body. Long hours of work, inappropriate eating habits and inadequate working conditions can also undermine dancers' health. Yet no comprehensive health and injury service for dancers exists. This report is the most thorough study of dancers' lifestyles, risks and achievements yet undertaken. In it dance experts, sports scientists and medical specialists combine forces to make an impassioned plea for better support of dancers' healthcare. Progess will only be made through the combined efforts of the dance profession, teachers, funding boides and healthcare professionals. This report is the first step.