Circus Is Sport — So Why Aren’t We Treating It That Way?

Performing artists train like elite athletes — but they’re rarely treated like them in healthcare.

In this episode, Emily Scherb (The Circus Doc) shares:

• How she transitioned from professional circus performer to PT
• Why circus participation is exploding across the U.S.
• What “adult-onset circus” means
• Why pole dancers avoid seeking care
• The stigma problem in healthcare
• How load management applies to performing artists
• Why saying “I don’t know” builds trust
• The massive business opportunity PTs are missing

Key Takeaways

• Circus artists are athletes.
• Performing arts lack a strong culture of training load management.
• PTs don’t need to be experts — just curious and respectful.
• Niching down builds authority and trust.
• This population is actively looking for clinicians who understand them.

Guest Links

Website: https://www.thecircusdoc.com

Instagram: @thecircusdoc

LinkedIn: Emily Scherb