Prospects of using the rockerboard balance board to enhance the coordination abilities of dancers

Abstract

Topicalyty. The article explores the prospects of using the Rockerboard balance board as an innovative tool for enhancing the level of coordination abilities in dancers. An analysis of scientific and methodological literature on the role of physical preparation and, in particular, coordination in sports dancing has been conducted. Based on a sociological study (a survey of dancers and coaches, interviews with Rockerboard users), a current need for modernizing the training process and a high interest in implementing non-traditional tools were identified. The expediency of integrating the Rockerboard for the targeted development of static and dynamic balance, strengthening of stabilizer muscles, and increasing athletes' motivation for training has been substantiated. Methodological recommendations have been developed.

The purpose of the study is the theoretical substantiation and practical investigation of the prospects of using the Rockerboard balance board to improve the level of coordination abilities in dancers, as well as the development of methodological recommendations for its integration into the training process.

Materials and methods: Qualified dance athletes (n=28) and coaches in this sport (n=10) participated in the social study.

Research methods: theoretical analysis and generalization of scientific sources and educational and methodological literature; sociological survey in the form of an online questionnaire among coaches and athletes, online interviews with active Rockerboard users; methods of mathematical statistics; visualization methods (development of video materials and schematic images).

Results of  the study. Methodological recommendations for the integration of the Rockerboard balance board into the training process of sports dancers have been developed and presented. The expediency of its use for improving coordination abilities and modernizing physical preparation has been substantiated. A practical toolkit for coaches has been created, which includes instructional video materials, exercise complexes, and recommendations for conducting sessions, as well as an example of associative games using the Rockerboard for children.

Conclusions. The implementation of the proposed Rockerboard balance board, which is a multifunctional tool, will not only contribute to the modernization and improvement of physical preparation but also diversify the training process, which positively affects the motivation and performance of athletes. Training on the Rockerboard develops coordination, motor skills, strengthens stabilizer muscles, stimulates the vestibular system, and enhances imagination, which is critically important for dancers.