There are different surfaces to consider when it comes to the sprung dance floor. Each dancer has their preference for what they think works best underfoot. There are many factors that dancers must take into account, such as flooring cost, floor installation time, or floor durability.
Keep reading to learn the reasons why dancers prefer sprung floors
1. Firmness Of A Sprung Floor
Most dancers prefer sprung flooring because it can move with them as they dance. The springiness of a floor allows dancers to feel safer and more secure when performing. It offers the right firmness for footwork significantly jumps and turns.
When dancing on a regular floor like hardwood or vinyl, dancers feel more pressure on their knees and hips. They must bend the knee more to accommodate for a floor that doesn’t have enough give.
2. Proper Flooring For Professional Dancers To Hold Out A Long Career
Sprung floors aren’t just suitable for recreational dancers; professional dancers also need the support of sprung floors, which is why they are often the first to install one. Although it does depend on how much dancing you do during your daily routine, professional dancers require sprung floors because it helps them recover faster after their performances.
3. Ease Of Movement And Footwork Can Be Improved On Sprung Floors
A dancer’s natural tendency is to prefer a soft surface for movement. But sometimes, it can be too soft to perform certain moves on. If the dance floor is too springy, there’s more bounce than usual when they jump or land.
It results in harder technique and timing because dancers must compensate for the extra springiness of the flooring. They would have to rely on their strength to stay grounded.
4. Comfort And Less Fatigue For Dancers That Spend Hours On A Sprung Floor
Sprung floors are suitable for dance practices and fitness classes that require a lot of continuous movement. It reduces the risk of injury because dancers won’t feel as much shock when they land on one foot.
If a person were to make the same move on a regular hardwood floor, their muscles and bones would feel more intense pressure as they land. It could result in discomfort or stress injuries such as knee pain and shin splints after long hours of dancing.
5. Variations Of Dance Floors For Different Types Of Dancers And Classes
There are two types of sprung floors: soft and hard floors. It usually depends on the type of dance being performed because factors such as height, weight, and amount of movement should be considered for hard or soft floors.
Conclusion
So if you ask a dancer, “why sprung dance floors,” the answer will be simple: for safety and to reduce fatigue after hours of dancing. A soft flooring can accommodate fast and abrupt movements with ease compared to a regular hardwood or vinyl floor.
It is also suitable for professional dancers that spend most of their days on a sprung floor. They no longer have to worry about injuries such as shin splints and knee pain because the softness of the flooring allows them to perform well without discomfort or stress.
They can move with ease and comfort at all times, which is why dancers prefer sprung dance floors over hardwood or vinyl for better performance and recovery after practice.
