DYSMORPHIC DIFFERENCES IN THE DISTRIBUTION OF ADIPOSE TISSUE AMONG COMPETITIVE BALLROOM DANCERS

Abstract

In competitive ballroom dancing, the assessment of the aesthetics of physique directly affects the result. Although the regulations do not specify any restrictions, judges discriminate against couples with large morphological disproportions. Therefore, physique is an important determinant of selection in this discipline. The varied individual and intersexual dynamics of biological development necessitates a change of a partner during the adolescence period, as the disproportions that arise from therein disturb the fluidity of movements and aesthetics, which is subject to judges’ assessment. This paper attempts to estimate the dimorphic differences in the distribution of adipose tissue in a group of male and female dancers practicing competitive ballroom dance at the highest level. The obtained results allow concluding that systematic, multi-annual, task-oriented physical activity of dancers eliminates sex differences in the scope of adipose tissue. Most importantly, the obtained data may be helpful in the development and optimization of selection systems of dance partners for couples practicing competitive ballroom dancing.