Abstract

Bharatanatyam dance form is a mean of expression, a medium to connect people, it is an art form. In which a full development of several physical capacities is also needed, which turn Bharatanatyam into an artistic and athletic activity. Each movement has to be performed correctly, gracefully, slowly, with control, without apparently effort. Pilates’ exercise emphasizes on these factors. When the experienced Bharatanatyam dancer performs, it is easy to admire the grace, accuracy, reliability and harmony of the whole movement. However, to give a tremendous performance, a dancer should be strong and flexible. This means that great performances pre-suppose a fully developed body where technique, aesthetics, and physical conditioning work together. Therefore to achieve excellence, Bharatanatyam dancers must learn how to be an artist and athlete. For this a dancer must take supplementary training. The biggest challenge in front of dance teachers, choreographers and researchers is- what kind of conditioning workout can be included in the training process? Which is the best exercise to improve muscular strength? How can balance and flexibility be optimally developed? And how can the risk of injury are reduced? The answer and convenient option are Pilates’ exercises. Pilates is a mild, non-aerobic supplementary exercise. It lengthens and strengthens the muscles, and improves posture, without stressing the joints or the heart. The Pilates method integrates both physical and mental elements. The middle part of the paper presents principles of performing Pilates’ exercises and profits using the Pilates method. The aim of this research is to convey the similarities between Bharatanatyam dance form and Pilates, importance of Pilates exercise and its benefits for Bharatanatyam dancers. Researcher’s advice, through her own experience, is to adopt Pilates’ exercise in the routine of Bharatanatyam dancers to improve mindfulness, strength, stamina and most importantly reduce the risk of injury which can lead to a successful and long-lasting career.