DANC 130: Alignment and Correctives

Citrus College Course Outline of Record

Citrus College Course Outline of Record
Heading Value
Effective Term: Fall 2021
Credits: 2
Total Contact Hours: 54
Lecture Hours : 36
Lab Hours: 18
Hours Arranged: 0
Outside of Class Hours: 72
District General Education: E1. Dance Activity
Transferable to CSU: Yes
Transferable to UC: Yes - Approved
Grading Method: Standard Letter, Pass/No Pass

Catalog Course Description

A class for non-dancers and dancers seeking an introduction to the structural aspects that affect movement and gait. Lectures include biomechanical and neuromuscular aspects of the body. Practical hours include in-depth study of Pilates mat techniques and Gyro-kinesis. 36 lecture hours, 18 lab hours.

Course Objectives

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the movement techniques of Pilates and Gyro-kinesis
  • Recognize location, function and correct usage of the muscles used for alignment, movement and gait
  • Recognize the correct placement for balance, turns and jumps and the techniques to develop better alignment for common injuries and their prevention
  • Demonstrate basic Pilates mat sequences and theraband exercises

Major Course Content

  1. Muscles Involved in Respiration, Alignment and Gait
    1. Location and function
    2. Strengthening and stretching
    3. Applications to Pilates mat work
  2. Pilates Mat Work
    1. Respiration series
    2. Pelvic series
    3. Abdominal series
    4. Foot and ankle series
    5. Knee and hip joint series
    6. Trunk and spine series
    7. Shoulder girdle series
  3. Movement Technique Applications
    1. Movement props (thera-band, physio-ball, disc work)
    2. Applications to Gyro-kinesis
    3. Alignment applications to dancers and athletes
    4. Injury prevention therapies and proper care with Theraband
    5. Lecture introduction to machine work (Pilates Reformer and Trapeze Table, Gyro-tonic Expansion System)
    6. Self analysis
  4. Personal program development and protocols

Lab Content

  • Intercostal breathing
  • Pelvic Curls
  • Pelvic Bridges
  • Abdominal Curls
  • Single/Double Leg Reach
  • Roll-Ups/Roll Downs
  • Side leg work
  • Leg Circles
  • Back Arrows and Pilates "swimming"
  • Pilates "push-ups"
  • Theraband work
  • Gyrokinesis variations
  • Shoulder Girdle Strengthen/Release exercises

Suggested Reading Other Than Required Textbook

Pilates books, internet research.

Examples of Required Writing Assignments

A self-assessment of gait, structural analysis essay of 2 to 3 pages is required.

Examples of Outside Assignments

Textbook study, practicum homework, observation of others gait and bio-structural analysis.

Instruction Type(s)

Lecture, Lab, Online Education Lecture, Online Education Lab