What if ballet class is training more than your turnout?

In this episode, Dr. Caroline Simpkins (former professional ballerina and PhD in biomechanics) breaks down the cardiovascular physiology of ballet.

We explore:

• What happens to your heart during barre, center, adagio, and allegro
• Why ballet counts as intermittent cardiovascular training
• How stroke volume and cardiac output adapt over time
• Why even slow combinations increase heart demand
• The connection between ballet, fall prevention, and healthy aging
• How breath, posture, and emotion influence your cardiovascular system

Ballet isn’t just aesthetic training. It challenges the musculoskeletal, neuromuscular, and cardiovascular systems simultaneously. Whether you're 16 or 60, your heart is adapting every time you step into class.

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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.

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