Neuromuscular Training in Pre-Professional Ballet Dancers: A Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial

Introduction It is well documented that there is high prevalence of injuries in pre-professional and professional ballet dancers. Current evidence from high in quality and quantity research on injury prevention in sport indicates that interventions can reduce injury risks by 30% to 50%. Injury prevention research in dance is limited. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility (adherence, fidelity, and practicality) of a randomized controlled trial for the utilization of neuromuscular training in pre-professional ballet dancers. Methods A convenience sample of 22 pre-professional ballet dancers were randomized into an intervention and control group. The intervention group took part in a neuromuscular-based training workout, five times per week before the ballet class, for 10 weeks. The intervention was an adaptation of the FIFA 11+, an injury prevention intervention and is called 11+ Dance. The intervention consisted of low intensity bodyweight exercises that lasted 20 to 30 minutes performed daily. Results Intervention adherence was 38% ± 8%, with higher participation at the beginning of the study. Attendance for post-testing was low 45% and 36% for the intervention and control group, respectively, mainly due to injury. There were no adverse effects reported, however, the participants reported delayed onset muscle soreness at the beginning of the intervention, indicating that there may be a potential training effect. Fear of muscle hypertrophy and fatigue were also reported as reasons for attrition. The repeated measures ANOVA revealed statistically non-significant differences for the countermovement jump F(1, 9) = 0.36, p = 0.564, η2p = 0.04; reactive strength index F(1, 7) = 0.02, p = 0.885, η2p = 0.003; and the isometric mid-thigh pull F(1, 12) = 0.002, p = 0.967, η2p = 0.000. Conclusion The results of the study, together with the feedback from the participants, suggest that some protocol modifications are necessary for the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial in a pre-professional setting. The current trial has produced valuable information for the intervention fequency and load prescription.