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1.1 Clearly explain what is meant by a balanced diet and how good nutrition could benefit a dancer's performance - NSC Dance Studies - Question 1 - 2017 - Paper 1
Question 1
1.1 Clearly explain what is meant by a balanced diet and how good nutrition could benefit a dancer's performance. 1.2 Stress and tension can prevent a dancer from a... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:1.1 Clearly explain what is meant by a balanced diet and how good nutrition could benefit a dancer's performance - NSC Dance Studies - Question 1 - 2017 - Paper 1
Step 1
Clearly explain what is meant by a balanced diet and how good nutrition could benefit a dancer's performance.
Answer
A balanced diet is one that includes all the main food groups necessary for the body to function optimally. These groups typically include:
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Complex Carbohydrates: These should constitute the bulk of a dancer's diet as they provide the body with steady energy throughout rehearsals and performances. They are digested slowly, which helps maintain energy levels.
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Proteins: Essential for building and repairing body tissues, proteins contribute to muscle repair and growth, which is particularly important for dancers who put their bodies under significant stress.
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Dairy Products: Important for bone health, dairy provides calcium, helping to prevent brittle bones which is crucial for dancers.
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Fruits and Vegetables: These provide essential vitamins and minerals that support overall well-being. Vital for recovery, they help dancers maintain their energy and strength.
Good nutrition can benefit a dancer's performance in various ways:
- Increased Energy Levels: A well-rounded diet supports higher energy output in dance classes.
- Mental Alertness: Proper nutrition fuels cognitive function, enabling better learning and retention in class.
- Increased Fitness Levels: A balanced intake contributes to overall fitness, which is critical for a dancer's capability.
- Improved Recovery: Nutrients help the body recover from illness and injury, allowing dancers to maintain consistent performance.
- Positive Attitude Towards Dancing: A well-nourished body often leads to a more positive mental state.
Step 2
Describe TWO symptoms of stress and tension and how they could affect a dancer.
Answer
Two symptoms of stress and tension that can affect a dancer include:
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Physical Symptoms: Fatigue can impede a dancer's judgment during classes. Physical manifestations like cramps, aches, and increased heart rate can significantly disrupt a dancer's performance and increase the risk of injuries.
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Mental Symptoms: Increased anxiety may result in a decreased ability to interact with others effectively in a dance class, leading to feelings of isolation or unhappiness. This can erode self-confidence, ultimately undermining the dancer's performance.
Step 3
Clearly describe THREE relaxation techniques you can use to reduce stress and tension.
Answer
Three effective relaxation techniques that can help reduce stress and tension are:
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Deep Breathing Exercises: Practicing deep breathing can calm the mind and body. Inhale deeply through the nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through the mouth to encourage relaxation.
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Cool Down Routine: After dancing, engaging in a cool-down routine helps physically relax the muscles, preventing stiffness and reducing tension.
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Meditation or Mindfulness Practices: Setting aside a few moments each day for meditation or mindfulness can improve focus, reduce stress levels, and enhance overall emotional well-being.