Ballet Science
Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D.
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Ballet Science is a podcast hosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., a former ballerina turned biomechanics researcher. Each episode brings science into the ballet studio, exploring the intersection of ballet, dance science, and human movement. Topics include injury prevention, biomechanics, strength, nutrition, mindset, and performance. The show aims to help dancers and anyone who moves perform and feel their best.
Episoder
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How Dancers Should Fuel: Nutrition Tips for Ballet | Rachel Fine, RDN 18.08.2026 51minWhat should dancers eat before ballet class? How much should they be eating? What about carbohydrates, hydration, recovery, and snacks during long rehearsals?In this episode, I’m joined by Rachel Fine, RDN, a registered dietitian nutritionist, former professional dancer, and founder of The Healthy Dancer®. Rachel shares practical, evidence-based advice to help dancers properly fuel their training while avoiding restrictive food rules and nutrition misinformation.Whether you are a young dancer, parent, teacher, professional, or adult recreational dancer, this episode is packed with practical strategies you can put into action.Join the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceConnect with Rachel Fine:WebsiteInstagramHosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities give their best performances both onstage and off, and reveals how the science of ballet can benefit anyone who moves. Each week, we explore the intersection of science and ballet... from injury prevention and biomechanics to nutrition, mindset, and everything in between. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share it with your friends and dance community. You can also follow Ballet Science on social media and visit our website for additional information.Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare LightLogo Photo: Richard CalmesAdditional Photos Provided By: Rachel FinePlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. All proceeds are reinvested back into Ballet Science. -
Can Ballet Help After Breast Cancer? | What the Science Says 11.08.2026 12minCan ballet support recovery after breast cancer?A new qualitative research study explored the experiences of women who participated in a 16-week classical ballet program after breast cancer treatment. Rather than measuring strength or flexibility alone, researchers asked a different question: What was the experience actually like?In this episode, I break down the study's five major themes, including:How ballet helped participants feel "normal" againThe importance of community and shared experiencesWhy a supportive instructor mattered so muchThe physical, emotional, and cognitive benefits participants describedWhy researchers recommend hybrid ballet programs in the futureJoin the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceHosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities give their best performances both onstage and off, and reveals how the science of ballet can benefit anyone who moves. Each week, we explore the intersection of science and ballet... from injury prevention and biomechanics to nutrition, mindset, and everything in between. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share it with your friends and dance community. You can also follow Ballet Science on social media and visit our website for additional information.Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare LightLogo photo: Richard CalmesPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. All proceeds are reinvested back into Ballet Science.
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Is Losing Your Period "Normal" in Ballet? New Research Says... 04.08.2026 9minIs it "normal" for ballet dancers to lose their periods?A new 2025 study of elite dancers from the Paris Opera Ballet found that 71% had experienced at least one menstrual cycle disorder during their careers. In this episode, we break down the research, discuss what these findings mean for dancers, and explain why menstrual health is about much more than fertility.If you're a ballet dancer, dance teacher, parent, healthcare provider, or simply interested in dance medicine, this episode will help you better understand one of the most important indicators of dancer health.Join the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceHosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities give their best performances both onstage and off, and reveals how the science of ballet can benefit anyone who moves. Each week, we explore the intersection of science and ballet... from injury prevention and biomechanics to nutrition, mindset, and everything in between. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share it with your friends and dance community. You can also follow Ballet Science on social media and visit our website for additional information.Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare LightLogo photo: Richard CalmesPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. All proceeds are reinvested back into Ballet Science.
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Returning to Dance After Concussion at ABT | Courtney Shealy 28.07.2026 39minProfessional ballet dancers perform incredible athletic feats every day... but what happens when a head injury threatens their career? In this episode, I sit down with Courtney Shealy, a professional dancer with American Ballet Theatre (ABT), to discuss her journey from a young dancer in Florida to one of the world's premier ballet companies.Courtney also shares her recent experience recovering from a concussion, explaining how the injury happened, the symptoms she initially brushed off, and the testing process that led to her diagnosis. She discusses the specialized physical therapy that helped her safely return to rehearsals and performances, and why she believes greater concussion awareness is needed throughout the ballet world to help dancers recognize symptoms and prioritize their long-term health.Whether you're a dancer, teacher, parent, or healthcare professional, this conversation offers valuable insight into recognizing concussions and prioritizing long-term health.Join the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceConnect with Courtney Shealy:InstagramHosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities give their best performances both onstage and off, and reveals how the science of ballet can benefit anyone who moves. Each week, we explore the intersection of science and ballet... from injury prevention and biomechanics to nutrition, mindset, and everything in between. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share it with your friends and dance community. You can also follow Ballet Science on social media and visit our website for additional information.Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare LightLogo photo: Richard CalmesPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. All proceeds are reinvested back into Ballet Science.
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Encore: Strength Training for Male Ballet Dancers | Shane Wuerthner 21.07.2026 33minShould male ballet dancers lift weights? Strength training has become increasingly common in the ballet world, but many dancers still worry that lifting weights will make them bulky, reduce flexibility, or negatively affect their technique.In this Ballet Science Encore episode, I'm revisiting one of the most valuable conversations from the Ballet Science archives with former professional ballet dancer and strength coach Shane Wuerthner. Shane danced with the Vienna State Opera, San Francisco Ballet, and Queensland Ballet before transitioning into strength and conditioning, where he now helps dancers train smarter and stay healthier.Whether you're a male ballet student, professional dancer, teacher, or parent, this episode offers practical advice backed by experience and science.Ballet Science Encore: Every so often, I revisit one of the most informative conversations from the Ballet Science archives. These Encore episodes feature timeless advice that remains just as relevant today, often in a shorter, curated highlights format.Watch or listen to the full-length original interview here. Join the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceConnect with Shane Wuerthner:WebsiteInstagramFacebookYouTubeHosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities give their best performances both onstage and off, and reveals how the science of ballet can benefit anyone who moves. Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare LightLogo photo: Richard CalmesPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. All proceeds are reinvested back into Ballet Science.
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Ballet Retirement, Identity, and Career Transition | Aurora Dickie 14.07.2026 46minProfessional ballet careers are incredibly rewarding... but they are also short. What happens when the curtain finally closes?In this episode, I sit down with Aurora Dickie, soloist with Staatsballett Berlin and graduate student in dance science, to discuss one of the most important (and often overlooked) topics in ballet: preparing for life after a performing career.Aurora shares her journey from Brazil to Washington Ballet and Staatsballett Berlin, explains how she balances a demanding professional schedule while earning a master's degree, and discusses her fascinating research on retirement transition in professional dancers.Whether you're a dancer, teacher, parent, healthcare professional, or simply interested in dance science, this conversation offers valuable insights into building a healthier and more sustainable ballet career.Join the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceConnect with Aurora Dickie:WebsiteInstagramHosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities give their best performances both onstage and off, and reveals how the science of ballet can benefit anyone who moves. Each week, we explore the intersection of science and ballet... from injury prevention and biomechanics to nutrition, mindset, and everything in between. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share it with your friends and dance community. You can also follow Ballet Science on social media and visit our website for additional information.Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare LightLogo photo: Richard CalmesPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. All proceeds are reinvested back into Ballet Science.
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Hypermobility & EDS in Ballet | Dr. Linda Bluestein 07.07.2026 47minCan being too flexible actually increase your risk of injury?Many dancers are praised for their flexibility, but hypermobility isn't always an advantage. In this episode of the Ballet Science Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Linda Bluestein, physician, former ballet dancer, and internationally recognized expert in hypermobility disorders, to discuss what every dancer, teacher, and parent should know about hypermobility and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS).Whether you're a professional dancer, pre-professional student, adult ballet dancer, teacher, healthcare provider, or parent, this episode offers practical, evidence-informed advice for training smarter and dancing longer.Join the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceConnect with Dr. Linda Bluestein:WebsiteInstagramBendy Bodies PodcastHosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities give their best performances both onstage and off, and reveals how the science of ballet can benefit anyone who moves. Each week, we explore the intersection of science and ballet... from injury prevention and biomechanics to nutrition, mindset, and everything in between. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share it with your friends and dance community. You can also follow Ballet Science on social media and visit our website for additional information.Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare LightLogo photo: Richard CalmesPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. All proceeds are reinvested back into Ballet Science.
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The Reality of Professional Ballet | Kathryn Morgan 30.06.2026 48minKathryn Morgan is one of the most recognizable names in ballet education, but behind her successful career lies a story of resilience, advocacy, and overcoming a life-changing health diagnosis. In this episode of the Ballet Science Podcast, Kathryn shares her journey from New York City Ballet to becoming one of the world's leading online ballet educators. We discuss how thyroid disease affected her professional career, body image, and identity as a dancer, along with the lessons she has learned about self-advocacy, sustainable training, perfectionism, and finding purpose beyond ballet.As someone who also experienced thyroid cancer during my own ballet career, this conversation became especially meaningful as we reflected on how thyroid-related conditions can affect dancers in ways that are often overlooked.Whether you're a dancer, teacher, parent, or healthcare professional, this episode offers valuable insights into dancer health, resilience, and building a long-term relationship with ballet.Join the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceConnect with Kathryn Morgan:WebsiteYouTubeInstagramHosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities give their best performances both onstage and off, and reveals how the science of ballet can benefit anyone who moves. Each week, we explore the intersection of science and ballet... from injury prevention and biomechanics to nutrition, mindset, and everything in between. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share it with your friends and dance community. You can also follow Ballet Science on social media and visit our website for additional information.Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare LightLogo photo: Richard CalmesPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. All proceeds are reinvested back into Ballet Science.
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What Happens Inside a Pointe Shoe? | PointeSense 23.06.2026 51minHave you ever wondered what is actually happening inside a pointe shoe? In this episode of the Ballet Science Podcast, I sit down with Christine Fernandez and Kaitlyn Kumar, co-founders of PointeSense, a wearable technology designed to provide real-time feedback during pointe work.Using pressure sensors and motion tracking technology, PointeSense aims to help dancers, teachers, fitters, and healthcare professionals better understand pointe technique, alignment, shoe fit, and potential injury risks.Whether you're a ballet dancer, teacher, pointe shoe fitter, dance medicine professional, or simply curious about the future of dance technology, this is a fascinating conversation you won't want to miss.Join the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceConnect with PointeSenseWebsiteInstagramBallet Science is hosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., former professional ballerina and biomechanics researcher. The podcast explores injury prevention, biomechanics, nutrition, mindset, and the science behind dance performance.Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare LightLogo photo: Richard CalmesPlease note that some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. All proceeds are reinvested back into Ballet Science.
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Hypermobility in Ballet: Advantage or Injury Risk? 16.06.2026 13minCan hypermobility help ballet dancers... or increase injury risk? In this episode, we explore the science of hypermobility and its role in ballet training. Learn the difference between flexibility and hypermobility, why hypermobile dancers are often drawn to ballet, how conditions such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) fit into the conversation, and why strength and stability may be even more important than flexibility.Whether you've been told you're "double-jointed," struggle with hyperextended knees, or simply want to better understand how hypermobility affects ballet technique and injury prevention, this video is for you.Join the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceBallet Science is hosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., former professional ballerina and biomechanics researcher. The podcast explores injury prevention, biomechanics, nutrition, mindset, and the science behind dance performance.Disclaimer: This content is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding medical concerns, injuries, or suspected connective tissue disorders.Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare LightLogo photo: Richard Calmes
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Dance and Menopause: What the Research Says 09.06.2026 12minCan dance improve mental and physical health during menopause? In this episode, we explore a 2025 systematic review and meta-analysis examining the effects of dance interventions on perimenopausal, menopausal, and postmenopausal women.Researchers analyzed multiple studies involving dance styles such as Zumba, jazz dance, traditional cultural dances, sports dance, and dance movement therapy. The results suggest that dance may significantly improve depression, anxiety, vitality, social functioning, quality of life, and several physical health outcomes.We discuss the science behind these findings, potential mechanisms, practical takeaways, and important limitations of the research. Whether you're a dancer, healthcare professional, teacher, student, or simply interested in healthy aging, this episode highlights how movement and dance may support well-being throughout life.Research publication: Liao, D., Mo, L., & Chen, M. (2025, April). The effectiveness of dance interventions on health-related outcomes in perimenopausal, menopausal, and postmenopausal women: a systematic review and Meta-analysis. In Healthcare (Vol. 13, No. 8, p. 881). MDPI.Join the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceBallet Science is hosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., former professional ballerina and biomechanics researcher. The podcast explores injury prevention, biomechanics, nutrition, mindset, and the science behind dance performance.Medical Disclaimer: This video is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Every individual's health situation is unique. If you are experiencing menopausal symptoms, please consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding treatment options. This discussion is not intended to discourage hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or other medical treatments. Rather, it explores current research on dance as a potential complementary, non-pharmacological strategy that may support health and well-being during the menopausal transition.Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare LightLogo photo: Richard Calmes
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Why Ballet Dancers Customize Their Pointe Shoes 01.06.2026 11minWhy do ballerinas destroy brand new pointe shoes before dancing in them? In this episode, we explore the fascinating science, biomechanics, and artistry behind breaking in pointe shoes. From bending the shank and crushing the box to darning, rosin, jet glue, and sewing ribbons with dental floss, professional ballet dancers completely customize their shoes to match their feet and performance needs. What looks like destruction is actually a highly specialized process that transforms a stiff, generic shoe into a personalized high-performance tool.We discuss:Why new pointe shoes are dangerously stiffThe biomechanics of the shank and archWhy dancers crush and soften the boxHow pointe shoes are modified for grip and tractionRosin, darning, jet glue, and pancakingWhy pointe shoes are so expensiveThe hidden labor behind ballet performanceWhether you’re a dancer, ballet parent, teacher, or simply curious about the science of ballet, this episode reveals the engineering and anatomy behind one of ballet’s most iconic traditions.Join the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceHosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities give their best performances both onstage and off, and reveals how the science of ballet can benefit anyone who moves. Each week, we explore the intersection of science and ballet... from injury prevention and biomechanics to nutrition, mindset, and everything in between. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share it with your friends and dance community. You can also follow Ballet Science on social media and visit our website for additional information.Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare LightLogo photo: Richard Calmes
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Pressure, Performance, & Training in Elite Ballet | Joy Womack 25.05.2026 58minWhat is it really like to train at one of the most prestigious ballet schools in the world? In this video, I sit down with Joy Womack (the first American woman to graduate from the Bolshoi Ballet Academy) to discuss the realities of elite ballet training, injury, mental health, body image, performance pressure, and the physical demands of professional dance. Joy shares her incredible journey from early training in the United States to studying in Russia at just 15 years old, dancing professionally across multiple countries and ballet systems, and eventually building a freelance career and nonprofit organization in France.We also discuss:The differences between Russian, French, and American ballet trainingThe mental health challenges dancers face transitioning into company lifeStress fractures, overtraining, and recoveryStrength training and conditioning in balletBallet identity and life beyond the stageWhat today’s young dancers need mostWhether you are a dancer, teacher, parent, healthcare professional, or simply fascinated by human performance, this is an incredibly insightful and honest conversation about the realities of ballet at the highest level.Join the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceConnect with Joy Womack:WebsiteYouTubeInstagramHosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities give their best performances both onstage and off, and reveals how the science of ballet can benefit anyone who moves. Each week, we explore the intersection of science and ballet... from injury prevention and biomechanics to nutrition, mindset, and everything in between. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share it with your friends and dance community. You can also follow Ballet Science on social media and visit our website for additional information.Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare LightLogo photo: Richard Calmes
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The Science of Pirouettes 18.05.2026 10minHave you ever watched a ballerina perform a flawless pirouette and wondered how it’s even possible? In this episode, we break down the fascinating physics behind ballet turns... from angular momentum and torque to spotting, balance, friction, and fouettés.You’ll learn how dancers use the same physical principles that govern figure skaters, tornadoes, and spinning planets to create speed, control, and stability during turns. From the initial push-off to the iconic passé position, every pirouette is a masterclass in biomechanics and physics.Topics Covered:Angular MomentumMoment of InertiaTorque & Push-Off MechanicsSpotting & BalanceFriction & FouettésWhy Dancers Pull Their Arms In During TurnsThe Biomechanics of PirouettesJoin the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceHosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities give their best performances both onstage and off, and reveals how the science of ballet can benefit anyone who moves. Each week, we explore the intersection of science and ballet... from injury prevention and biomechanics to nutrition, mindset, and everything in between. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share it with your friends and dance community. You can also follow Ballet Science on social media and visit our website for additional information.Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare LightLogo photo: Richard Calmes
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The Science of Ballet Flexibility 11.05.2026 11minWhy are ballet dancers so flexible? Is it genetics… or training? In this video, we break down the real science behind flexibility. Learn how dancers develop incredible range of motion, why the nervous system plays such a major role in stretching, and how strength and flexibility work together in ballet training. This episode covers:The science of flexibilityStatic vs. dynamic flexibilityWhy dancers need strength for flexibilityHow the nervous system controls stretchingWhy warming up matters before stretchingHow long stretches should actually be heldWhy oversplits are NOT the goalSafe flexibility training for adults and beginnersWhether you’re a ballet dancer, adult beginner, teacher, athlete, or simply curious about how the body works, this episode explains flexibility in a way that is practical, evidence-based, and accessible.Join the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceHosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities give their best performances both onstage and off, and reveals how the science of ballet can benefit anyone who moves. Each week, we explore the intersection of science and ballet... from injury prevention and biomechanics to nutrition, mindset, and everything in between. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share it with your friends and dance community. You can also follow Ballet Science on social media and visit our website for additional information.Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare Light
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Mental Fatigue in Ballet: What New Research Shows 05.05.2026 9minWhat if one of the biggest predictors of injury in ballet isn’t weak ankles or poor technique... but your brain?In this episode, we dive into the science of mental fatigue in ballet dancers and how it impacts performance, learning, and injury risk. Based on recent research on professional ballet dancers, this episode explores how cognitive overload, choreography demands, and sustained focus contribute to fatigue, and why that may lead to injuries like sprained ankles.Key topics covered:What mental fatigue actually is (and why it’s not just “being tired”)Why ballet is as cognitively demanding as it is physicalThe link between mental fatigue and injury riskHow dancers experience mental fatigue in rehearsal and performancePractical strategies dancers use to manage fatigueWhy this research matters for dancers, teachers, and training environmentsThis episode is especially important for anyone interested in dance science, injury prevention, and performance optimization.Research publication:Wirdnam, M., Ferrar, K., Mayes, S., MacMahon, C., Cook, J., & Rio, E. (2024). “A sprained ankle is the biggest sign of mental fatigue”: A qualitative study of the perceptions and experiences of mental fatigue in professional ballet. Physical therapy in sport, 65, 154-161. Join the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceHosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities give their best performances both onstage and off, and reveals how the science of ballet can benefit anyone who moves. Each week, we explore the intersection of science and ballet... from injury prevention and biomechanics to nutrition, mindset, and everything in between. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share it with your friends and dance community. You can also follow Ballet Science on social media and visit our website for additional information.Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare Light
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Why Ballet Is So Difficult: The Science Behind It 28.04.2026 8minBallet looks effortless... but if you’ve ever tried it, you know that’s far from the truth. So why is ballet so hard… and why is it harder than it looks? In this video, we break down the science behind ballet technique, including biomechanics, balance, motor control, and strength. From controlling your center of mass to managing a high cognitive load, ballet challenges both your body and your brain in ways most people don’t realize.You’ll learn:Why ballet is designed to look easy (even when it’s not)The biomechanics of balance and dynamic stabilityWhy your brain feels overwhelmed in ballet classHow turnout challenges your natural alignmentWhy ballet requires strength in the hardest positionsThe real difference between beginner and professional dancersJoin the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceHosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities give their best performances both onstage and off, and reveals how the science of ballet can benefit anyone who moves. Each week, we explore the intersection of science and ballet... from injury prevention and biomechanics to nutrition, mindset, and everything in between. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share it with your friends and dance community. You can also follow Ballet Science on social media and visit our website for additional information.Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare Light
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The Physics of Pointe Work 21.04.2026 7minHow do ballet dancers balance on their toes in pointe shoes? Learn the science and anatomy of pointe work, including ballet biomechanics, pointe shoe mechanics, and how dancers safely balance their center of mass on their toes in ballet technique.If you’ve ever tried standing on your toes, you know it feels impossible. But the truth is, it’s not just strong feet or natural talent... it’s physics, biomechanics, and years of neuromuscular training that allow ballerinas to control extreme forces on such a small surface area.In this episode, we break down:Why pointe work creates extremely high pressureHow alignment reduces injury riskWhat pointe shoes actually do (and don’t do)The full-body muscle coordination required for balanceWhy pointe training takes years... not monthsJoin the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceHosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities give their best performances both onstage and off, and reveals how the science of ballet can benefit anyone who moves. Each week, we explore the intersection of science and ballet... from injury prevention and biomechanics to nutrition, mindset, and everything in between. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share it with your friends and dance community. You can also follow Ballet Science on social media and visit our website for additional information.Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare Light
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Dance & Autism: What the Research Shows 14.04.2026 8minWhat if dance could do more than build technique… what if it could change how we connect with others? In this video, we break down scientific research examining how dance impacts individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We explore:Whether dance improves overall ASD symptomsThe powerful effects on social interaction and communicationWhy empathy did not significantly changeThe neuroscience behind movement, connection, and learningWhat this means for dancers, teachers, clinicians, and familiesResearch Publication:Chen, T., Wen, R., Liu, H., Zhong, X., & Jiang, C. (2022). Dance intervention for negative symptoms in individuals with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Complementary therapies in clinical practice, 47, 101565. Join the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceHosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities give their best performances both onstage and off, and reveals how the science of ballet can benefit anyone who moves. Each week, we explore the intersection of science and ballet... from injury prevention and biomechanics to nutrition, mindset, and everything in between. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share it with your friends and dance community. You can also follow Ballet Science on social media and visit our website for additional information.Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare Light
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Dance & Parkinson’s Disease: What the Research Shows 07.04.2026 9minWhat if dance could actually help people with Parkinson’s disease improve their balance... and potentially reduce their risk of falling?In this episode, I break down one of my own research studies: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials (612 participants) examining how dance impacts balance in Parkinson’s disease... and the results might surprise you.We’ll cover:Whether dance actually improves balanceWhat an effect size means (in simple terms)Whether certain dance styles work better than othersWhy duration matters more than styleThe science behind why dance works (neurology + biomechanics)What this means for real-world fall risk and independenceThis isn’t just theory... this is high-level clinical evidence translated into real, practical insights. If you're a dancer, teacher, clinician, or just curious about how movement impacts the body and brain, this episode is for you.Publication Discussed:Simpkins, C., & Yang, F. (2023). Do dance style and intervention duration matter in improving balance among people with Parkinson’s disease? A systematic review with meta-analysis. Parkinsonism & related disorders, 106, 105231. Join the Ballet Science E-mail ListWatch This Video On YouTubeConnect With Ballet Science:WebsiteInstagramFacebook XAmazon StorefrontE-mail: caroline@ballet.scienceHosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities give their best performances both onstage and off, and reveals how the science of ballet can benefit anyone who moves. Each week, we explore the intersection of science and ballet... from injury prevention and biomechanics to nutrition, mindset, and everything in between. If you enjoyed this episode, please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, and share it with your friends and dance community. You can also follow Ballet Science on social media and visit our website for additional information.Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:MicrophonePop FilterMic StandPrompterLarge Key LightSmall Key LightEve Flare Light
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