Our research found that older adults who take ballet recreationally tend to be stronger, more powerful, and more balanced than non-dancers. These abilities… leg strength, power, balance, and coordination… are major components of fall prevention. But why might ballet make such a difference? In this episode, we break down why ballet may support healthier aging…

There’s growing interest in how ballet can support healthy aging, but surprisingly little research has focused on independent, healthy older adults who choose to take ballet classes on their own. While previous studies have shown improvements in balance, strength, and gait in adults aged 50+, many have lacked comparison groups or were based on virtual…

Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults worldwide. As our population ages, finding effective, sustainable ways to improve balance, mobility, and overall physical function has never been more important. While walking programs, strength training, and traditional balance classes can help reduce fall risk, many older adults struggle to stay consistent. So what…

Falls are the #1 cause of injury in older adults worldwide, but can ballet help? In this episode of the Ballet Science Podcast, Caroline Simpkins, PhD, breaks down her published research in the Journal of Dance Medicine & Science, examining whether recreational ballet dancers aged 55+ show advantages in key fall-risk factors compared to non-dancers.…

How does a professional ballet dancer go from the stage… to becoming a strength and personal trainer? 💪 In this Ballet Science Podcast clip, Shane Wuerthner shares his powerful journey from dancing with the Vienna State Opera, the San Francisco Ballet, and the Queensland Ballet to transitioning into the fitness world. Shane opens up about…

What physical qualities are male ballet dancers really lacking, and how do you fix them? 💪 In this Ballet Science Podcast clip, Shane Wuerthner (former principal dancer and founder of Athletistry) breaks down the most common movement limitations he sees in male dancers and dance students. From dancers who are strong but inflexible… to dancers…

Are male ballet dancers still being told that strength training will make them “too bulky”? 💪 In this Ballet Science Podcast clip, Shane Wuerthner, former principal dancer and founder of Athletistry, breaks down the BIGGEST misconceptions male ballet dancers and students hear about weight training. From being warned against leg exercises at 16 to being…

Unlock what it really takes to build strong, resilient male ballet dancers, without “bulking up” or losing artistry. In this episode of the Ballet Science Podcast, Caroline Simpkins sits down with Shane Wuerthner (former principal dancer and founder of Athletistry) to talk all things strength training for male dancers and students. We break down the…

What are the biggest biomechanical benefits dancers gain from strength training? In this Ballet Science Podcast clip, Kendall Baab breaks down how resistance training improves balance, jump power, leg height, plié depth, endurance, and overall technical control. We explore how stronger tendons, better joint mobility, and improved muscle endurance translate directly into higher développés, more…

In this episode, host Caroline Simpkins is joined by Kendall Baab, a Los Angeles–based strength and conditioning coach, dance science educator, and founder of Body Kinect. We dive into how strength training can transform ballet technique, reduce injury risk, and build confidence for dancers, from young studio students to pre-professional and professional performers. We cover:…