DANC 230: Alignment and Correctives Intermediate

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
Prerequisite: DANC 130.
District General Education: E1. Dance Activity
Transferable to CSU: Yes
Transferable to UC: Yes - Approved
Grading Method: Standard Letter

Catalog Course Description

A class for non-dancers and dancers seeking a deeper survey of the structural aspects that affect movement and gait. Lectures include biomechanical and neuromuscular aspects of the body. Practical hours include in-depth study of intermediate level Pilates mat and Reformer techniques and sequences. 36 lecture hours, 18 lab hours.

Course Objectives

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the movement techniques of Pilates and Gyro-kinesis at the intermediate level
  • 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 intermediate level Pilates mat sequences and resistance band exercises
  • Demonstrate an understanding of beginning to intermediate Pilates Reformer sequences

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 at the intermediate level
    2. Pelvic series at the intermediate level
    3. Abdominal series at the intermediate level
    4. Foot and ankle series at the intermediate level
    5. Knee and hip joint series at the intermediate level
    6. Trunk and spine series at the intermediate level
    7. Shoulder girdle series
  3. Movement Technique Applications at the intermediate level
    1. Movement props (resistance band, physio-ball, disc work)
    2. Applications to Gyro-kinesis
    3. Alignment applications to dancers and athletes at the intermediate level
    4. Injury prevention therapies and proper care with resistance bands at the intermediate level
    5. Lecture introduction to machine work (Pilates Reformer and Trapeze Table, Gyro-tonic Expansion System)
    6. Self analysis
  4. Reformer Sequences
    1. Foot and ankle sequences (the "sevens")
    2. Abdominal sequences
    3. Leg and ankle sequences
    4. Lower and back sequences

Lab Content

  • Intercostal breathing
  • Pelvic Curls at the intermediate level
  • Pelvic Bridges at the intermediate level
  • Abdominal Curls at the intermediate level
  • Single/Double Leg Reach at the intermediate level
  • Roll-Ups/Roll Downs at the intermediate level
  • Side leg work at the intermediate level
  • Leg Circles at the intermediate level
  • Back Arrows and Pilates "swimming" at the intermediate level
  • Pilates "push-ups" at the intermediate level
  • Resistance band work at the intermediate level
  • Gyrokinesis variations at the intermediate level
  • Shoulder Girdle Strengthen/Release exercises at the intermediate level
  • Reformer sequences

Suggested Reading Other Than Required Textbook

Pilates books, internet research.

Examples of Required Writing Assignments

A two to three page essay that analyzes gait, structural analysis with corrective directives from Reformer.

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