- Kristy Nilsson
I attend the new studio of Extensions Dance Academy in Cedar
Rapids. At the studio we have two dance studios that contain Harlequin floors,
and one room with wooden floors that are used for tap. This is my first year on
the new floors, and although it took some adjustment I have learned to love
them all they are doing to help my body.
Here is an excerpt from my studios website http://www.extensionsdanceacademy.com/about/our-facility/
Dance is a very physical activity that can put a lot of
stress on the bones and joints. Most dance footwear provides very little, if
any, cushioning or support, so the shock of dance movement can place a lot of
pressure on the knees and back of a dancer. The best way to prevent against
potential injury is by choosing a studio with a professional “floating floor”.
A floating floor is a dance floor that rests on a system of high-density foam,
to absorb the shock of landing. A high-density foam base is superior to a
“sprung” floor, which usually consists of a wood structure built on a regular
floor. The top layer of the dance floor is also important. A vinyl and rubber
composite “harlequin” floor is accepted as the best surface layer for
recreational to professional dance. Facilities such as the Joffrey Ballet of
New York and Chicago, American Ballet Theater of New York, and Riverdance are
just a few of the many professional dance organizations that use harlequin
floors as their dance surface. A harlequin floor will protect your child from
slips and falls as well as overuse injuries and muscle fatigue.
This floor has proven benefits to me as I have previous knee
pain and injuries from dancing on concrete and gym floors for dance team. I
feel less pain than I usually would and for that I am grateful. I believe that
the outcomes from this floor are so beneficial and should be spread to all
dance studios, to give relief to dancer’s body, they will not be young forever.
~Julia Brewer
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