Effects of a Greek Traditional Dance Programme on Sensorimotor Synchronization and Auditory Reaction Time of Young Children

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a Greek traditional dance programme on sensorimotor synchronization (SMS) and reaction time on primary school children (6.41 ± 0.41 yr.). We randomly assigned 61 children to either the dance group (31 children, 15 boys, 16 girls, 6.42 ± 0.40 yr.), who took part in a dance programme of 12 lessons (3 times/week), or the control group (30 children, 16 boys, 14 girls, 6.40 ± 0.42 yr.). Before and after the intervention, we assessed both groups for SMS (walking in synchrony to 80 and 120 beats/min) and reaction time. Two-way ANOVA repeated measures show that the dance group performed significantly better on SMS compared to the control group at 80 beats/min (BPM), but not at 120 BPM. We discuss the results in relation to spontaneous motor tempo and the information-processing theory. In relation to reaction time, no significant difference was observed between the two groups at the end of the intervention. However, the dance group showed a significant improvement between pre- and post-tests. It may be concluded that a dance programme of 12 lessons constitutes an effective and enjoyable activity for the improvement of young children's sensorimotor synchronization at 80 BPM and perhaps reaction time.