Efficiency of the training process in dance sport athletes at the comprehensive stage of training

Background The research aimed to determine motor skills that significantly affect the level of technical preparation in dancesport at the early stage of training. The applicable purpose was to determine the selection indicators in dancesport at the stage of initial training. Material/Methods The study involved 50 dancesport contestants aged 6-9 years. The tests were carried out 3 times, at the beginning, after a year and after two years of training. Motor skills were assessed by means of: the Starosta's test, a stabilographic platform, the IPTF trial, a trial testing the frequency of moves, a measurement of explosive strength of the lower limbs, ergometric measuring equipment "Concept 2 Dyno", a test of simple reaction speed and of anticipation in space. Special fitness was determined on the basis of results of special fitness tests and standard anthropometric measurements were made by means of Martin's method. A factor analysis was made of all the measurements; the correlation matrix was calculated with probability at p <= 0.05. Independent variables were confronted with the special fitness test results presented by the studied dancers. The multiple regression method was used, and for analysis the special fitness test result of 3 dance tournaments immediately after the 1st, 2nd and 3rd stage of laboratory tests and the results of these tests were taken. Results The result of the special fitness test at the 1st stage of research is explained by multiple regression with independent variables in 66%, at the 2nd stage of research in 87%, and at the 3rd stage of research in 81%. The highest level of regression was reported at the 1st stage of research for the variable both legs coordination and at the 3rd stage of research for the variables balance and chene turns. Conclusions 1. At the early stage of practicing dancesport, the greatest impact on the special fitness is exerted by: motor coordination, balance, flexibility, speed and strength skills, the body height and mass, the pelvis, torso, and chest indicators, and BMI. 2. The tests and indices applied in the research best reflect the specificity of dancesport and they can be recommended in the selection process for this sport discipline.