Determination the state of the cardiovascular system in professional folk dancers

Abstract

Bulgarian folk dances are one of the most recognizable symbols of Bulgarian culture. Behind the beauty of dance are intensive rehearsals that demand high physical endurance, strongly dependent on the cardiovascular system. Specialized training programs can support dancers’ performance and health. The purpose of this study was to assess cardiovascular function before and after a specialized training program in professional folk dancers. Sixteen dancers (mean age 21 years) from the Student Folklore Ensemble at South-West University "Neofit Rilski" participated. Cardiovascular function was evaluated using the Ruffier and Master’s two-step tests, applied before and six weeks after the program. Heart rate, blood pressure, and calculated indices (Ruffier and Ruffier-Dickson) were analyzed.  Improvements were observed in all measured cardiovascular parameters after the program, with significant reductions in heart rate and blood pressure, as well as better recovery indices. The application of simple, low-cost, and accessible field tests such as the Ruffier and Master’s two-step tests provides an adequate assessment of cardiovascular function in dancers. Their ease of use makes them valuable for coaches, medical professionals, and sport specialists, particularly when advanced technology is not available.