Show Notes
Pilates is everywhere in the dance world… but what actually makes it so effective for ballet dancers?
In this episode, I’m joined by Kerry Shea, Pilates instructor at the School of American Ballet (NYC), to break down how Pilates supports alignment, core control, coordination, injury prevention, and performance... from young pre-professionals to seasoned pros.
We cover: What is Pilates? What “the core” means for dancers Why Pilates is especially helpful for hypermobility How SAB integrates Pilates into a holistic health + wellness model Common dancer patterns Pilates helps fix Why “just doing more ballet” can reinforce dysfunctional patterns How to start Pilates safely + what certifications to look for in an instructor
🎧 Subscribe to the Ballet Science Podcast (YouTube, Apple, Spotify) for weekly episodes on biomechanics, injury prevention, adult ballet, anatomy, mindset, and the science behind dance.
💬 Have more questions about Pilates? Leave them in the comments!
Affiliate Links: Magic Circle
Join the Ballet Science E-mail List
Watch This Video On YouTube
Connect With Ballet Science: Website Instagram Facebook X Amazon Storefront E-mail: [email protected]
Hosted 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: Microphone Pop Filter Mic Stand Prompter Large Key Light Small Key Light Eve Flare Light
Logo Photo: Richard Calmes
More from Ballet Science
Ballet is physically demanding, but what about the mental side of dance? How can dancers manage performance anxiety, perfectionism, and the psychological challenges of injury and career transitions?
What does it really take to build a successful career as a professional dancer? It's about more than technique, auditions, and getting hired.
What happens when ballet becomes part of cancer recovery? In this episode of the Ballet Science Podcast, I’m joined by Anna Wassman-Cox, a former professional ballet dancer, two-time breast cancer survivor, and founder of Onco-Ballet.
What happens when a cancer diagnosis changes the body you've spent your entire life training?
Pointe training is one of the most demanding aspects of ballet... but are we teaching it in the most effective way?