The Ultimate Contortion Quiz

Contortion: A Performance Art of Extreme Physical Flexibility

• Contortion is a performance art in which performers called contortionists showcase their skills of extreme physical flexibility.
• Contortion acts often accompany acrobatics, circus acts, street performers, and other live performing arts.
• Contortion acts are typically performed in front of a live audience with one or more artists performing a choreographed set of moves or poses.
• The physical flexibility required to perform such acts greatly exceeds that of the general population.
• Most contortionists are generally categorized as "frontbenders" or "backbenders", depending on the direction in which their spine is most flexible.
• Skills performed by contortionists include frontbending, backbending, dislocations, and extreme body positions.
• Long-term damage to the spine, called scoliosis, is a common risk in long-term contortion practitioners.
• Contortion acts are highly variable, and many incorporate elements of humor, drama, shock, sensuality, or a blend of styles.
• In the past, contortionists were associated almost exclusively with circuses and fairs.
• The primary origins of contortion take place in Asian traditions, such as traditional Buddhist Cham dances in China and Mongolia and the Hindu doctrine of yoga.
• Notable contortionists include Zlata, Sofie Dossi, and Jonathan Nosan.
• Glossary: Frontbenders, backbenders, dislocations, extreme body positions, scoliosis.