Comparison of Lower Extremity Motor Functions between Bharatnatyam Dancers and Bollywood Dancers

Introduction: Bharatnatyam, a classical Indian dance form, emphasizes endurance, flexibility, and strength. In contrast, Bollywood dance represents a dynamic fusion of India’s classical and folk traditions with global dance influences such as Jazz, Hip-hop, Arabic, and Latin styles. While extensive research exists on motor abilities in Western dance forms, studies focusing on Indian dance styles remain limited. To address this gap, the present study aimed to compare the lower limb motor functions of practitioners of Bharatnatyam and Bollywood dance. Aim: This study aims to compare the motor functions of the lower extremities between the Bharatnatyam dancers and Bollywood dancers. Settings and Design: Comparative study. Subjects and Methods: The study was conducted on a total of 60 participants. Each participant underwent five standardized tests: the standing broad jump test, the sit and reach test, the wall squat test, the foot tap test, and the 6-min walk test. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistics was done using Prism software. Unpaired t -test and Mann–Whitney U test were used for specific outcomes. Results: The mean muscular endurance score for Bharatnatyam dancers was 35.23 s, compared to 66.00 s for Bollywood dancers ( P = 0.0019). For cardiovascular endurance, the mean distance covered by Bharatnatyam dancers was 540.1 m, compared to 501.3 m for Bollywood dancers ( P = 0.014). Conclusions: The study concludes that there is a significant difference in muscular endurance, with Bollywood dancers having a greater mean value of 66 s. On the contrary, cardiovascular endurance is greater in Bharatnatyam dancers with a mean value of 540.1 m.