The Effect of Dance Program Participation on the Prevention Musculoskeletal Disorders

This study analyzed the effects of regular participation in a Korean dance program on the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders in women in their 40s, based on whether they majored in dance. The results are as follows: The bone mineral density(BMD) of the group that majored in dance and participated in the Korean dance program was within the normal range, whereas the group that did not major in dance but participated in the program showed signs of osteopenia. The group that majored in dance and participated in the Korean dance program demonstrated significantly higher values in upper muscular strength and endurance, arm BMD, legs BMD, total BMD, and T-score compared to the group that did not major in dance. Although there was no statistically significant difference in lower muscular strength and endurance and fat free mass, the dance-major group exhibited higher values in these aspects as well. These findings suggest that an increase in BMD during adolescence and early adulthood due to a dance major contributes to maintaining high BMD levels in middle-aged women, thereby delaying fractures caused by osteoporosis and serving as a crucial factor in preventing musculoskeletal disorders. The results emphasize the importance of exercise and dance habits in preventing musculoskeletal disorders and suggest that the earlier these habits are established, the greater the benefits.