Effects of a Greek Traditional Dance Program on Sensorimotor Synchronization and Response Time of Young Children

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a Greek traditional dance program on sensorimotor synchronization (SMS) and response time on elementary school children (6.29. ± .45 yrs). Sixty-one children were randomly assigned to either the dance group (31 children, 15 boys, 16 girls, 6.27±.45 yrs), who took part in a dance program of 12 lessons (3 times/week), or the control group (30 children, 16 boys, 14 girls, 6.28±.45 yrs). Prior to and after the intervention, both groups were assessed for SMS (walking in synchrony to 80 and 120 beats/min) and response time. Two-way ANOVA repeated measures showed that the dance group performed significantly better on SMS compared to the control group at 80 beats/min (BPM), but not at 120 BPM. The results are discussed in relation to spontaneous motor tempo and the information-processing theory. In relation to response time there was no significant difference between the two groups at the end of the intervention, however, the dance group showed a significant improvement between pre- and post-test. It may be concluded that a dance program of 12 lessons constitutes an effective and enjoyable activity for the improvement of young children’s sensorimotor synchronization at 80 BPM and maybe response time.