Institute of Sport Science

Research projects

Motor control and learning in dance

In dance, rotations around the longitudinal axis are frequently performed.  Ballet rotations, such as pirouettes or fouettés, require a high number of consecutive revolutions performed to perfection. In such rotations, dancers utilize a typical gaze strategy known as "spotting"; wherein dancers anchor their gaze to the audience before rapidly rotating the head to overtake the rest of the body in each revolution (see video). However, it is still unclear why ballet dancers employ this technique. In a series of studies aiming to uncover the functionality of spotting, we first collected expert opinions on the topic with a Delphi Method survey (Haber & Schärli, 2021). We then conducted an exploratory study with professional ballet dancers investigating balance, orientation, and spotting behavior during multiple rotations (Schärli et al., 2022). Furthermore, we examined whether employing the complex spotting technique supports or hinders the learning of a pirouette (Klostermann et al., 2020). In addition to this series of projects, we empirically examine various other features of dance-specific movements; for example, the coordination of a demi-plié (Schrefl et al., 2021).

Selected Publications:

Haber, C. & Schärli, A. (2021). Defining spotting in dance: A delphi method study evaluating expert opinions. Frontiers in Psychology, 12:540396. 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.540396

Klostermann, A., Schärli, A., Kunz, S., Weber, M. & Hossner, E.-J. (2022). Learn to turn: Does spotting foster skill acquisition in pirouettes? Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport, 93(1), 153–161. 10.1080/02701367.2020.1813239

Schärli, A., Haber, C. & Klostermann, A. (2022, in Vorb.). Does a visual reference point help ballet dancers turn more successfully?

Schrefl, A., van de Langenberg, R. & Schärli, A. (2021). Kinematic analysis of the coupling between calcaneal eversion and ankle dorsiflexion in a contemporary dancer’s demi plié. Medical Problems of Performing Artists, 36(1), 45–53. 10.21091/mppa.2021.1007