⚠️ Struggling with negative body image in the studio? 

In this episode, Registered Dietitian Rachel Fine shares mindset shifts and actionable strategies to help dancers move away from comparison and toward confidence in their here-and-now body.

Learn how to:

✅ Understand why body image is more about mindset than appearance

✅ Navigate comparative thoughts in and out of the studio

✅ Build confidence without sacrificing your health or performance

📅 Perfect for: dancers, educators, and parents supporting dancers through body image challenges.

👉🏼 Read the full blog: https://dancenutrition.com/body-image/

Timestamps ⬇️ (Skip to the section you need!)

0:00 | Why Body Image Matters for Dancers

How body image sets the stage for confidence in and out of the studio.

0:32 | Meet Rachel Fine, Dance Dietitian

Rachel introduces today’s focus: building supportive body image in dancers.

0:45 | What Is Body Image?

A dancer’s beliefs, feelings, and perceptions about their body and movement.

1:18 | How Body Image Develops

Why messages we hear in childhood and adolescence shape lifelong body beliefs.

2:00 | Why Dancers Struggle with Body Image

How comparison, costumes, and casting pressures fuel dissatisfaction.

2:54 | The Role of Bias in Dance Culture

How outdated ideals and body stereotypes reinforce harmful beliefs.

3:40 | The Link Between Body Image and Disordered Eating

Why restrictive eating and over-exercising often stem from body dissatisfaction.

3:56 | Is Body Acceptance Always the Goal?

Why acceptance can feel out of reach for dancers who’ve experienced stigma.

4:50 | The Set Point or “Happy Weight”

How adequate nourishment supports health without restrictive behaviors.

5:24 | Using Self-Compassion and Curiosity

How dancers can reconnect with their here-and-now bodies.

5:46 | Supportive vs. Positive Body Image

Why striving for a supportive body image may be more realistic than full body love.

6:42 | Three Key Tools for Dancers

Body neutrality, body image resilience, and body appreciation explained.

7:07 | Body Neutrality

How to reduce judgment and pressure around appearance while focusing on function.

7:52 | Body Image Resilience

Building strength against triggering messages in dance spaces.

8:57 | Journaling and Reflection

Exploring how past messages shape current body beliefs.

9:14 | Free Body Confidence Challenge

Rachel shares a guided 5-day practice for dancers.

10:06 | The Role of Neutral Affirmations

Simple mindset shifts to reframe how dancers view their bodies.

10:37 | Why Support Is Essential

How dietitians and mental health professionals help dancers build lasting confidence.

11:09 | Final Takeaways & Resources

Rachel shares tools and invites dancers to join The Healthy Dancer® program.

Rachel Fine, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Sports Nutritionist, Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, and Certified Counselor of Intuitive Eating works with dancers to help them build supportive relationships with both food and body. Disclaimer: This is produced for informational purposes only. This information is general, not specific to you. The information in this podcast does not substitute for medical advice. The viewer assumes full responsibility for consulting a qualified health professional regarding health conditions or concerns, and before starting a new diet or health program.