Comparison of selected biomechanical variables of lower limbs and dynamic balance between folk and ballroom dancers

Background: The literature review revealed few reports comparing dancers of different dance styles, especially in lower limb biomechanics and dynamic balance. This study aimed to compare the hip and knee ROM, hamstring muscle length, and dynamic balance between Polish folk dancers, ballroom dancers, and non-dancers. Methods: Nineteen Polish folk dancers (FD), fifteen ballroom dancers (BD), and seventeen physically inactive non-dancers (ND) took part in this observational study. The mean dancing experience of the dancers was 7.7 years. The research procedures included the use of the author’s questionnaire, assessment of lower limb range of motion (ROM) (goniometer), measurement of hamstring muscle length (the Active Knee Extension (AKE) Test), and dynamic balance assessment (the Y-Balance Test). Results: Analysis revealed significant differences in knee extension (p=0.001), hamstring muscle length (p <0.0001), and dynamic balance (p=0.02) between the groups. Conclusion: Due to the greater flexibility of the hamstring muscles in dancing groups, the knee hyperextension in ballroom dancers, and the knee limited extension in folk dancers, further research should be conducted to include the hamstring muscle peak force and the lumbopelvic complex assessment.