How do ballet dancers walk compared to non-dancers? In this episode, we break down the biomechanics of gait, balance, and stability using real research. Explore findings from my own study comparing professional ballet dancers to non-dancers during normal walking.

You’ll learn how ballet training influences step length, step width, walking speed, cadence, and dynamic gait stability... and what that means for balance and fall risk. This episode is perfect for dancers, teachers, clinicians, and anyone interested in movement science, injury prevention, and performance.

Research Publication:

• Simpkins, C., & Yang, F. (2024). Dynamic gait stability and spatiotemporal gait parameters during overground walking in professional ballet dancers. Journal of dance medicine & science, 28(1), 28-36.

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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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