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Caroline Simpkins

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Ballet Science
Ballet ScienceWhy Ballet Dancers Destroy Their ShoesWhy do ballerinas destroy brand new pointe shoes before dancing in them? In this episode, we explore the fascinating science, biomechanics, and artistry behind breaking in pointe shoes. From bending the shank and crushing the box to darning, rosin, jet glue, and sewing ribbons with dental floss, professional ballet dancers completely customize their shoes to match their feet and performance needs. What looks like destruction is actually a highly specialized process that transforms a stiff, generic shoe into a personalized high-performance tool.We discuss:Why new pointe shoes...
2026-06-0111 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceJoy Womack on Elite Ballet | Pressure, Performance, & TrainingWhat is it really like to train at one of the most prestigious ballet schools in the world? In this video, I sit down with Joy Womack (the first American woman to graduate from the Bolshoi Ballet Academy) to discuss the realities of elite ballet training, injury, mental health, body image, performance pressure, and the physical demands of professional dance. Joy shares her incredible journey from early training in the United States to studying in Russia at just 15 years old, dancing professionally across multiple countries and ballet systems, and eventually building a freelance career...
2026-05-2558 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceHow Ballet Dancers Pirouette | Science Says ThisHave you ever watched a ballerina perform a flawless pirouette and wondered how it’s even possible? In this episode, we break down the fascinating physics behind ballet turns... from angular momentum and torque to spotting, balance, friction, and fouettés.You’ll learn how dancers use the same physical principles that govern figure skaters, tornadoes, and spinning planets to create speed, control, and stability during turns. From the initial push-off to the iconic passé position, every pirouette is a masterclass in biomechanics and physics.Topics Covered:Angular Moment...
2026-05-1810 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceHow Ballet Dancers Get So Flexible | What Science SaysWhy are ballet dancers so flexible? Is it genetics… or training? In this video, we break down the real science behind flexibility. Learn how dancers develop incredible range of motion, why the nervous system plays such a major role in stretching, and how strength and flexibility work together in ballet training. This episode covers:The science of flexibilityStatic vs. dynamic flexibilityWhy dancers need strength for flexibilityHow the nervous system controls stretchingWhy warming up matters before stretchingHow long stretches should actually be heldWhy oversplits are NOT the goalSafe flexibility training for adults and beginners...
2026-05-1111 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceMental Fatigue In Ballet Dancers | Science Says ThisWhat if one of the biggest predictors of injury in ballet isn’t weak ankles or poor technique... but your brain?In this episode, we dive into the science of mental fatigue in ballet dancers and how it impacts performance, learning, and injury risk. Based on recent research on professional ballet dancers, this episode explores how cognitive overload, choreography demands, and sustained focus contribute to fatigue, and why that may lead to injuries like sprained ankles.Key topics covered:What mental fatigue actually is (and why it’s not...
2026-05-0509 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceWhy Ballet Is Harder Than It Looks | Science Says ThisBallet looks effortless... but if you’ve ever tried it, you know that’s far from the truth. So why is ballet so hard… and why is it harder than it looks? In this video, we break down the science behind ballet technique, including biomechanics, balance, motor control, and strength. From controlling your center of mass to managing a high cognitive load, ballet challenges both your body and your brain in ways most people don’t realize.You’ll learn:Why ballet is designed to look easy (even when it’s not)The biomechanics...
2026-04-2808 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceHow Ballet Dancers Stand On Their Toes | Physics ExplainedHow do ballet dancers balance on their toes in pointe shoes? Learn the science and anatomy of pointe work, including ballet biomechanics, pointe shoe mechanics, and how dancers safely balance their center of mass on their toes in ballet technique.If you’ve ever tried standing on your toes, you know it feels impossible. But the truth is, it’s not just strong feet or natural talent... it’s physics, biomechanics, and years of neuromuscular training that allow ballerinas to control extreme forces on such a small surface area.In this episode, we break down:
2026-04-2107 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceDoes Dance Help Autism? Here's What Studies ShowWhat if dance could do more than build technique… what if it could change how we connect with others? In this video, we break down scientific research examining how dance impacts individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We explore:👉 Whether dance improves overall ASD symptoms👉 The powerful effects on social interaction and communication👉 Why empathy did not significantly change👉 The neuroscience behind movement, connection, and learning👉 What this means for dancers, teachers, clinicians, and familiesResearch Publication:Chen, T., Wen, R...
2026-04-1408 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceCan Dance Reduce Falls in Parkinson’s? (My Research Explained)What if dance could actually help people with Parkinson’s disease improve their balance... and potentially reduce their risk of falling?In this episode, I break down one of my own research studies: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials (612 participants) examining how dance impacts balance in Parkinson’s disease... and the results might surprise you.We’ll cover:Whether dance actually improves balanceWhat an effect size means (in simple terms)Whether certain dance styles work better than othersWhy duration matters more than styleThe science behind why da...
2026-04-0709 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceCan Dance Slow Brain Aging? Here's What Research FoundWhat if dance could actually change your brain? Not just how you feel... but how your brain functions over time. In this video we break down a systematic review and meta-analysis (one of the highest levels of scientific evidence) to answer a powerful question: Can dance improve cognitive function and help protect against decline as we age?We’ll cover:What the research says about memory, attention, and executive functionWhy dance may stimulate neuroplasticityWhether dance is actually better than other forms of exerciseWhat this means for dancers, adults, and aging populations...
2026-03-3110 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceWhat Happens to Your Feet After Ballet… and How to Fix It | Ance Recovery SneakersWhat actually happens to your feet after a long day of ballet… and can recovery shoes really help? I sit down with Kunal Moudgil, co-founder of Ance Recovery Sneakers, to break down the science behind recovery footwear, and what it means for dancers.We talk about:What “recovery” actually means for the bodyWhy your feet feel so sore after class or rehearsalThe role of compression, acupressure, and alignmentWide toe boxes, plantar fasciitis, and foot healthWhether recovery shoes are backed by science (yet 👀)The future of footwear for dancers and athletesIf you’...
2026-03-2425 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceWhy People Should Care About BalletRecently, a comment circulated online from actor Timothée Chalamet claiming that “no one cares about ballet.”Whether the remark was serious or joking, it sparked a lot of conversation in the dance world. Instead of debating the comment itself, this video asks a deeper question: Why should people care about ballet?When you look at ballet through the lenses of art, science, culture, and human movement, it becomes clear that ballet is much more than a niche performance genre. Ballet sits at a fascinating intersection of storytelling, music, athle...
2026-03-1709 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceWhy Your Brain Loves Ballet | The Neuroscience Of DanceHave you ever left ballet class feeling mentally exhausted... even if it wasn’t the most physically intense class? That’s not random!In this episode, we discuss the neuroscience behind ballet training and why your brain thrives on it.We explore:How the motor cortex initiates every movementThe cerebellum’s role in balance and precisionHow the basal ganglia automate choreographyNeuroplasticity and motor learning in actionWhy ballet is high-level cognitive multitaskingThe connection between dance, executive function, and healthy agingBallet isn’t just muscle training...
2026-03-1005 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceBackstage: Why Dance Science ExistsBackstage is a Ballet Science bonus series featuring short reflections on lessons learned as a professional ballerina and ballet teacher, and how biomechanics and research later helped explain them. Quick insights at the intersection of studio experience and science.If ballet obviously improves balance… why do we need to study it in research?This is a question I receive often, especially when discussing research on ballet, balance, and fall prevention. Honestly, I understand the reaction. If you’ve trained in ballet or watched dancers move, the benefits can feel self...
2026-03-0505 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceWhy Your Heart Loves Ballet | The Cardiovascular ScienceWhat 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 allegroWhy ballet counts as intermittent cardiovascular trainingHow stroke volume and cardiac output adapt over timeWhy even slow combinations increase heart demandThe connection between ballet, fall prevention, and healthy agingHow breath, posture, and emotion influence your cardiovascular systemBallet isn’t just aesthetic tr...
2026-03-0306 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceAirline Pilot Learns Ballet as an Adult | Christopher MariciA commercial airline pilot… and an adult ballet student!In today’s episode, I’m joined by Captain Christopher Marici to talk about his life in aviation, how he discovered adult ballet, and why he believes ballet is one of the most powerful long-term investments you can make for your body and brain.We discuss:What a pilot’s day-to-day is really likeThe mental load of the jobWhat it’s like to be a true beginner as an adultWhy adult ballet can be a “reset” after high-stress work
2026-02-2435 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceHow Ballet Changes the Way You Walk | New Biomechanics ResearchWhat if the way you walk down the street could reveal whether you trained in ballet?In this episode, I break down my published research from the journal Gait & Posture, examining how ballet training influences walking biomechanics across the lifespan.Read the full publication here:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gaitpost.2026.110097We compared:Young professional ballet dancersOlder recreational ballet dancersYoung non-dancersOlder non-dancersUsing 3D motion capture and force plates, we analyzed: Walking speedStep length & cadenceStep widthGround...
2026-02-1714 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceReinventing Ballet Slippers | Seth & Sarah OrzaWhat makes Orza ballet shoes different from a traditional ballet slipper?In this episode of the Ballet Science Podcast, I’m joined by Seth and Sarah Orza (Pacific Northwest Ballet, New York City Ballet, School of American Ballet). After suffering an injury while dancing with New York City Ballet (NYCB), Seth Orza began adding padding to his ballet shoes to stay onstage. Noticing many dancers doing the same, he asked a simple question: Why hasn’t the ballet slipper evolved?That question led to the creation of ORZA Pro, a ba...
2026-02-1054 minBallet Science
Ballet SciencePilates For Ballet Dancers | Kerry Shea, School of American BalletPilates 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 dancersWhy Pilates is especially helpful for hypermobilityHow SAB integrates Pilates into a holistic health + wellness modelCommon dancer patterns Pilates helps fixWhy “just doing more balle...
2026-02-0341 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceBackstage: Adult Beginner Ballet Tips | 5 Common MistakesBackstage is a Ballet Science bonus series featuring short reflections on lessons learned as a professional ballerina and ballet teacher, and how biomechanics and research later helped explain them. Quick insights at the intersection of studio experience and science.If you’ve ever wanted to try ballet as an adult... or you’ve started but something feels harder than it should... this video is for you.In this Ballet Science: Backstage episode, I break down five of the most common mistakes adult ballet students make. These are not failures... they...
2026-01-2905 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceBunions in Ballet Dancers | Causes & How To Manage ThemIf you are a dancer, chances are you’ve been told you have a bunion, you’re going to get a bunion, or you’ve spent way too much time staring at your big toe, wondering if that bump is “normal.”In this episode of the Ballet Science Podcast, we take a biomechanics-based look at bunions in ballet dancers.You will learn:What is a bunion?Why are bunions so common in ballet dancers?The difference between having a bunion and having bunion painHow ballet shoe and pointe shoe fit i...
2026-01-2710 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceBackstage: 5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting a PhD After BalletBackstage is a Ballet Science bonus series featuring short reflections on lessons learned as a professional ballerina and ballet teacher, and how biomechanics and research later helped explain them. Quick insights at the intersection of studio experience and science.What happens when a professional ballet dancer starts a PhD?When I transitioned from a professional ballet career into a PhD in biomechanics, I expected the hardest part to be learning the science. What surprised me most was how different the pace, feedback, identity, and emotional experience of academia felt...
2026-01-2304 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceStarting Ballet As An Adult | Beginner Tips Backed by ScienceHave you ever thought, “I’ve always wanted to try ballet, but I’m too old” ... or “I didn’t start as a kid, so what’s the point now?” This episode is for you.In this Ballet Science Podcast episode, former professional ballerina and biomechanics PhD Caroline Simpkins breaks down how to start ballet as an adult from a science-based, body-respectful perspective.We cover:📌 Why ballet is absolutely accessible for adults📌 The neurological, balance, and strength benefits of ballet📌 How ballet supports health across the lifespa...
2026-01-2016 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceBackstage: What Being a Professional Ballerina Taught Me That Helped Me Earn a PhDBackstage is a Ballet Science bonus series featuring short reflections on lessons learned as a professional ballerina, and how biomechanics and research later helped explain them. Quick insights at the intersection of studio experience and science.When people hear that I was a professional ballerina and later earned a PhD in biomechanics, they often assume those worlds couldn’t be more different. But the truth is, many of the skills that helped me succeed in academia were forged long before I ever stepped into a research lab.In this vi...
2026-01-1504 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceBlisters in Ballet | Why They Happen & How to Prevent ThemBlisters are often treated like a rite of passage in ballet... but from a biomechanics perspective, they’re actually important feedback about how your foot is interacting with your shoe.If you’ve ever tried to dance with a painful blister, you know how much it can affect balance, confidence, and technique. Instead of just “toughing it out,” this episode helps dancers understand blisters as a modifiable mechanical issue, not a weakness.In this episode of the Ballet Science Podcast, you will learn:What blisters actually are (biologically and mech...
2026-01-1314 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceBackstage: 5 Things I Learned From Getting a PhDBackstage is a Ballet Science bonus series featuring short reflections on lessons learned as a professional ballerina, and how biomechanics and research later helped explain them. Quick insights at the intersection of studio experience and science.I went from spending my days in a ballet studio to a biomechanics lab. While those worlds may seem completely different, getting a PhD taught me some surprising lessons... not just about science, but about my body, learning, failure, and performance.In this video, I share five things I learned from getting a...
2026-01-0804 minBallet Science
Ballet Science2025 Year in ReviewIn 2025, I released 31 episodes of the Ballet Science Podcast covering anatomy, biomechanics, injury prevention, performance psychology, strength training, and research on ballet across the lifespan.In this year-in-review episode, I connect the dots among interviews, anatomy deep dives, and research discussions to show how they fit together. Think of this episode as a guided tour of Ballet Science... perfect if you’re new here and helpful if you’ve been listening all year.We revisit conversations with experts in dance medicine (Miko Fogarty), strength & conditioning (Shane Wuerthner & Kendall Baab), spor...
2026-01-0612 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceBackstage: Balancing College While Dancing ProfessionallyBackstage is a Ballet Science bonus series featuring short reflections on lessons learned as a professional ballerina, and how biomechanics and research later helped explain them. Quick insights at the intersection of studio experience and science.When I tell people that I went to college while dancing professionally as a ballerina, the reaction is almost always the same: How did you make that work?In this video, I break down the five strategies that enabled me to balance school with a professional ballet career, including what my daily schedule...
2026-01-0106 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceSpine Anatomy For Dancers | Herniated DiscsA herniated disc can sound terrifying for dancers, but it is not a career-ender.In this final episode of the Ballet Science spine series, Dr. Caroline Simpkins (former professional ballerina, PhD in biomechanics) breaks down what a herniated disc actually is, why it often develops gradually rather than from one dramatic movement, and (most importantly) why dancers can and do recover successfully.Using a physical spine model and her own personal recovery story, Caroline explains:What happens anatomically during a disc herniationWhy imaging findings don’t always equal painHow repetitive loading and movement pa...
2025-12-2809 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceSpine Anatomy For Dancers | Muscles, Tendons, LigamentsYour spine doesn’t move on its own. An entire team of muscles, tendons, and ligaments makes ballet possible, and most dancers are only using half of them.In Part 2 of the Ballet Science spine series, Dr. Caroline Simpkins (former professional ballerina, PhD in biomechanics) breaks down how the spinal support system actually works in ballet. We explore the difference between deep stabilizing muscles and global movers, why dancers tend to overgrip their backs and abs, and how this imbalance can limit technique and increase injury risk.You’ll lear...
2025-12-2108 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceSpine Anatomy For Dancers | BonesYour spine isn’t meant to be stiff, straight, or locked in place. It’s designed to move, absorb load, and adapt, and understanding its natural curves can instantly change your ballet technique.In this episode of the Ballet Science Podcast, former professional ballerina and biomechanics Ph.D. Caroline Simpkins breaks down the bones of the spine and explains how each region... the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine... supports the technical demands of ballet.We’ll explore:• Why the spine’s natural curves improve posture• How vertebra...
2025-12-1408 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceDoes Ballet Help Older Adults Reduce Fall Risk?Falls are the #1 cause of injury in older adults worldwide, but can ballet help?In this episode of the Ballet Science Podcast, Caroline Simpkins, PhD, breaks down her published research in the Journal of Dance Medicine & Science, examining whether recreational ballet dancers aged 55+ show advantages in key fall-risk factors compared to non-dancers.Using functional mobility tests, leg strength assessments, cognitive screening, and physical activity measures, this study explored how ballet may support strength, balance, power, coordination, and healthy aging.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why fa...
2025-12-0713 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceBuilding Strong Male Ballet Dancers | Shane WuerthnerUnlock what it really takes to build strong, resilient male ballet dancers, without “bulking up” or losing artistry. In this episode of the Ballet Science Podcast, Caroline Simpkins sits down with Shane Wuerthner (former principal dancer and founder of Athletistry) to talk all things strength training for male dancers and students.We break down the biggest misconceptions about lifting weights, why “just do push-ups” isn’t enough, and how to design smart, dancer-specific strength programs for partnering, jumps, turns, and overhead lifts. Shane also explains how to support young male dancers who feel intimidated stepping i...
2025-11-3058 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceStrength Training Benefits For Ballet Dancers | Kendall BaabWelcome to the Ballet Science Podcast, where we bring science into the studio to help dancers of all ages and abilities perform their best on stage and off. In this episode, host Caroline Simpkins, PhD, is joined by Kendall Baab, a Los Angeles–based strength and conditioning coach, dance science educator, and founder of Body Kinect.We dive into how strength training can transform ballet technique, reduce injury risk, and build confidence for dancers, from young studio students to pre-professional and professional performers.In this episode, we cover:Ke...
2025-11-2359 minBallet Science
Ballet SciencePointe Shoes: The Athletic Shoes of Ballet | Dr. Jessica AquinoFrom studio to science lab, this episode of the Ballet Science Podcast dives into how new vs. dead pointe shoes change lower-extremity biomechanics and muscle activity in professional ballet dancers. Dr. Caroline Simpkins, a former ballerina turned researcher, is joined by Dr. Jessica Aquino, DPT, ATC, a physical therapist and athletic trainer specializing in dance medicine, sports medicine, and performing arts medicine.We break down what “dead” pointe shoes really are, how Dr. Aquino measured differences using 3D motion capture, force plates, and EMG, and what those findings mean for stability, torque at the ankl...
2025-11-1640 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceSports Psychology for Dancers | Lauren Ostrander McArdle on Confidence, Mindset & PerformanceFormer professional ballerina Lauren Ostrander McArdle, MS (Sports Psychology), joins the Ballet Science Podcast to unpack the mental side of dance... how to manage perfectionism, channel nerves, and build a reliable pre-performance routine. We delve into injury psychology, explore identity beyond ballet, and discuss practical sport psychology tools that dancers can utilize in class, auditions, and on stage.What you’ll learn:🧠 How Mindset Impacts Technique, Artistry, And Consistency😮‍💨 Tools For Performance Anxiety (Breathing, Self-Talk, Arousal Regulation)💪 Building Confidence That Isn’t Dependent On Casting Or External Valida...
2025-11-091h 11Ballet Science
Ballet ScienceMastering Pointe Shoe Fitting | Josephine Lee (The Pointe Shop)Master pointe shoe fitter Josephine Lee (The Pointe Shop) joins Dr. Caroline Simpkins to demystify pointe shoe fitting—from shoe anatomy (box, shank, vamp, wings, platform) to how fit impacts technique, foot health, and injury risk.We cover common fitting mistakes, why pain is a red flag (not a rite of passage), spotting dead shoes, drying/rotating pairs, when jet glue helps, and why a professional fitting—in person or virtual—matters. Plus: trends in materials and emerging tech.Follow The Pointe Shop:Website: https://thepointeshop.comI...
2025-11-0235 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceMiko Fogarty’s Journey from Ballet Dancer to Podiatry DoctorFormer ballet star Dr. Miko Fogarty joins the Ballet Science Podcast to share her journey from elite performer (“First Position,” YAGP, Birmingham Royal Ballet) to a foot & ankle surgery resident specializing in podiatric medicine.We cover injury prevention, why dead pointe shoes raise risk, alignment tips that protect feet, knees, and hips, and how expert pointe-shoe fitting keeps dancers healthy. Plus: career transition advice, biomechanics insights, and clinician–teacher collaboration.Hosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., the Ballet Science podcast brings science into the studio to help dancers of all ag...
2025-10-2646 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceDancers: Are Your Hip Muscles Strong Enough for Turnout?What muscles control turnout in ballet? Learn how the hip muscles, tendons, and ligaments work together to create turnout, stability, extension, and control... and why understanding them can help prevent injury. If you’ve ever struggled with turnout, hip tightness, or stability, this episode explains what’s happening inside your body and how to train smarter.Learn how the hip muscles create turnout (not your knees or feet), and the role of the hip flexors in leg lifts and extensions. Discover how the glutes and hamstrings power arabesque and jumps, and why the posterior chai...
2025-10-1912 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceHip Anatomy For Dancers | Bones ExplainedWelcome to the Ballet Science Podcast, where dance meets science! In this episode, host Caroline Simpkins, a former ballerina turned researcher, breaks down the anatomy of the hip joint and explains how your bones, pelvis, and femur work together to support every turnout, arabesque, and développé.Learn how your unique hip structure affects turnout, flexibility, and alignment — and why understanding your bone anatomy can help prevent injuries like hip impingement and labral tears. Perfect for dancers, teachers, and movement enthusiasts who want to move smarter, not harder.Throughout this...
2025-10-1208 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceBallet Science & Dance Medicine: IADMS 2025 Conference HighlightsIn this episode of the Ballet Science Podcast, host Caroline Simpkins — former ballerina turned researcher — shares highlights from the 2025 International Association of Dance Medicine and Science (IADMS) Annual Conference in Las Vegas.Caroline recaps her award-winning study on ballet as a tool for fall prevention in older adults and walks through her top five favorite sessions, covering:Neurologic dance training as medicineScoliosis and dance injuriesMenopause and dancer health after 40New vs. dead pointe shoes and biomechanicsMusic, movement, and Parkinson’s rehabilitationThis episode is perfect for dancer...
2025-10-0514 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceWhy Ballet Dancers Can Have WEAKER Bones (Science Explained)Why do ballet dancers, who train for hours daily, often face weaker bones and stress fractures? In this episode, we explore new research on bone turnover, estrogen metabolism, and training demands in elite female ballet dancers.Learn why dancers may experience more bone breakdown than bone building, what this means for injury risk, and how science can help protect bone health and extend dance careers.Publication discussed in this episode:Bladt, F., Varaeva, Y. R., Retter, G. J., Courtney, A., Holloway, P. A. H., Frost, G., ... & Abel, R...
2025-09-2809 minBallet Science
Ballet Science34% of Ballet Dancers Have Anxiety | Here's WhyBallet is known for beauty, discipline, and control… but what’s happening behind the scenes? Today, we break down scientific research on mental health in professional ballet dancers. Discover the prevalence of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and sleep disturbances, and what these findings reveal about the pressures of elite performance environments.Learn why sleep is critical for both mental health and performance, and how coping skills can protect dancers. We also discuss why stigma prevents dancers from seeking help, and what ballet companies can do to better support dancers.Publ...
2025-09-2109 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceKnee Anatomy for Dancers: Menisci ExplainedDiscover the vital role of the menisci in knee anatomy and why they matter for dancers. In this episode of the Ballet Science Podcast, former ballerina turned researcher Caroline Simpkins explains how the menisci support shock absorption, stability, and injury prevention, essential knowledge for dancers, athletes, and anyone who moves.Throughout this episode, I’ll be referencing a physical model of the knee that I have with me in the studio. I highly recommend checking out the video version of this episode, so you can follow along visually and get the most out of to...
2025-09-1409 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceKnee Anatomy for Dancers | Muscles, Tendons, & Ligaments ExplainedWhat do the muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the knee actually do, and why are they so important for dancers? In this Ballet Science Podcast episode, Caroline Simpkins breaks down how these soft tissues work together to power movement, protect the knee, and prevent injuries. You’ll learn how quad dominance develops, why hamstring and glute strength matter, how tendon overuse leads to jumper’s knee, what the ACL, MCL, and other ligaments really do, and why forcing turnout from the knees is a recipe for injury. Whether you’re a dancer, teacher, or just curious about movement science, this e...
2025-09-0718 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceKnee Anatomy for Dancers | Bones ExplainedDiscover the inner workings of the knee joint in dancers with the Ballet Science Podcast! In this episode, Caroline Simpkins breaks down the bones of the knee, the femur, tibia, and patella, as well as the menisci, cartilage, and growth plates. Learn how proper alignment, technique, and body awareness protect your knees, prevent injuries, and support long-term movement health. Perfect for dancers, teachers, and anyone curious about anatomy in motion.Throughout this episode, I’ll be referencing a physical model of the knee that I have with me in the studio. I highly recommend ch...
2025-08-3109 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceFoot & Ankle Anatomy for Dancers | Muscles, Tendons, & Ligaments ExplainedDive into the anatomy of the foot and ankle with Ballet Science! In this episode, we explore the key muscles, tendons, and ligaments that keep your feet strong, balanced, and injury-free. Learn about the gastrocnemius and soleus (calf muscles), peroneals, tibialis anterior, intrinsic foot muscles, Achilles tendon, FHL tendon, extensor tendons, ATFL, deltoid ligament, and plantar fascia. Perfect for dancers, athletes, and anyone interested in foot mechanics, injury prevention, and improving stability and control.Throughout this episode, I’ll be referencing a physical model of the foot and ankle that I have with me in...
2025-08-2413 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceFoot & Ankle Anatomy for Dancers | Bones ExplainedExplore the incredible structure of the human foot with Ballet Science! In this episode, we break down the 26 bones of the foot, including the hindfoot (talus and calcaneus), midfoot (navicular, cuboid, and cuneiforms), and forefoot (metatarsals and phalanges).Learn about the medial, lateral, and transverse arches, the sesamoid bones, and how foot alignment impacts balance, jump power, and overall performance in dance. Perfect for dancers, teachers, and movement enthusiasts seeking to enhance their technique, prevent injury, and comprehend the biomechanics behind every step, jump, and pointe.Throughout this episode...
2025-08-1711 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceDancing Through Thyroid CancerIn this episode, I share my journey with papillary thyroid cancer, which began while I was still dancing professionally and preparing to dance the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker. Now, as a researcher and a cancer survivor, I want to help others recognize the early signs and know what to expect if they receive a papillary thyroid cancer diagnosis.Watch this episode on YouTubeLogo photo: Richard Calmes
2025-08-1014 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceGillian Murphy's Final Swan Lake at American Ballet TheatreIn today's special episode, we reflect on a major moment in the dance world.  After nearly thirty years of unforgettable performances, the great ballerina Gillian Murphy has taken her final bow with American Ballet Theatre, marking the end of a truly extraordinary era.Gillian's retirement closes a chapter defined by technical brilliance, emotional intensity, and a stage presence that left an indelible mark on ballet. Her final performance in Swan Lake was far more than a farewell; it was a living masterclass in grace, endurance, and transformation.Watch this e...
2025-08-0313 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceWhy Dancers Struggle With Food & Body Image (New Research)Dance is a world of strength, artistry, and discipline… but behind the scenes, there are real challenges that don’t get talked about enough. Today I break down new research on body image, nutrition knowledge, and eating behaviors in collegiate dancers.Here’s what the study found:Many dancers lack basic nutrition knowledgeA significant percentage are at risk for disordered eatingBody image perception is often inaccurateMost dancers rely on peers or social media for nutrition adviceWe also discuss:Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S)Why nutrition education matters for performance AND he...
2025-07-2709 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceNew vs Dead Pointe Shoes: Injury & Performance EffectsDiscover how new vs. worn (dead) pointe shoes impact a dancer’s balance, muscle activity, and injury risk in this Ballet Science Podcast episode. Former professional ballerina and researcher Caroline Simpkins breaks down the latest research on pointe shoe biomechanics, sway, and ankle stability. Learn why replacing worn shoes matters for performance, safety, and longevity in ballet.Publication discussed in this episode:Aquino, J., Amasay, T., Shapiro, S., Kuo, Y. T., & Ambegaonkar, J. P. (2021). Lower extremity biomechanics and muscle activity differ between ‘new’and ‘dead’pointe shoes in professional ballet dancers. Sports biomechanics, 20(4), 469-480.
2025-07-2011 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceBallet & Multiple Sclerosis: What Research SaysCan ballet help improve balance in people with multiple sclerosis (MS)? This video explores a fascinating research study investigating how a targeted ballet training program may help reduce ataxia and improve balance in individuals with mild to moderate MS. This research highlights how ballet can be more than an art form... it may also serve as a powerful tool for rehabilitation and neurological training. Multiple sclerosis affects the central nervous system, often impairing coordination, balance, and walking ability. Researchers wanted to explore whether the structured movement patterns of classical ballet could help retrain motor control and improve neurological function.
2025-07-1312 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceYour Walking Pattern Exposes Your Ballet Training | Here's WhyHow 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., & Ya...
2025-07-1311 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceWhen Is a Dancer Ready for Pointe? Ballet Teacher & Science InsightsJoin the Ballet Science Podcast with Caroline Simpkins, former ballerina and researcher, as we wrap up our two-part series on pointe readiness. In this episode, Caroline shares her personal perspective as a ballet teacher and researcher, explaining what teachers look for before allowing dancers to begin pointe work.We cover key factors including:Physical readiness: ankle, foot, and core strengthAnkle mobility and alignmentTechnical proficiency and years of trainingEmotional maturity and focusThe pointe shoe fitting processFirst-year goals for safe and confident pointe trainingAdvice for dancers starting ballet later in lifeThe important role parents play in supporting their child’s jo...
2025-07-0619 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceWhen Should You Start Pointe? | Science Says ThisWhen a dancer goes en pointe, the ankle experiences forces up to 12-13 times their body weight, significantly elevating the risk of injury. This video explains how proper ankle strength and ballet training are crucial to mitigate ankle pain. Understanding these forces helps every ballet dancer prepare safely for pointe work. Research shows that dancing en pointe can place up to 12-13x body weight through the ankle and foot, making proper preparation essential for injury prevention. In this video, we explore findings from a systematic review published in the Journal of Dance Medicine & Science to better understand how...
2025-06-2909 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceHow Ballet Changes The Way You Fall | New Biomechanics ResearchIn this episode, we explore how recreational ballet helps older adults improve balance, reduce fall risk, and react faster to unexpected slips. Learn about the neurobiomechanical mechanisms behind ballet training, including recovery steps, trunk control, and muscle activation, and discover why dance could be a fun and effective approach to fall prevention.What you'll learn:How ballet dancers outperform non-dancers in slip recoveryThe importance of backward recovery steps and trunk controlEMG findings showing faster muscle responses in dancersHow recreational ballet can help older adults stay steady on their feetPractical insights for adults of...
2025-06-2227 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceBallet & Fall Prevention: How Dancers Recover from Unexpected SlipsIn this episode (Part 2 of 3), we dive into the pilot study I conducted on fall prevention in professional ballet dancers.We explore:How ballet dancers respond to unexpected standing slipsDifferences between dancers and non-dancers in balance, trunk control, and recovery stepsWhat a pilot study is and why it’s important for larger researchHow ballet training may enhance reactive balance and reduce fall riskThis research provides early evidence that ballet training strengthens stability, trunk control, and adaptive balance responses, which could benefit anyone at risk of falls, including older ad...
2025-06-1523 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceBallet & Fall Prevention: How Ballet Training Improves BalanceWelcome to the Ballet Science Podcast! I’m Caroline Simpkins, a former ballerina turned researcher. In this first episode of our three-part series on ballet and fall prevention, we explore how ballet training can enhance balance, stability, and overall fall risk reduction for dancers and movers of all ages.We’ll cover:Why falls are a major concern, especially for older adultsHow ballet strengthens balance, lower body muscles, and core stabilityMy personal research journey and inspiration behind studying ballet and fallsOver the next two episodes, we’ll dive into m...
2025-06-0811 minBallet Science
Ballet ScienceFrom Pointe Shoes to PhD: Caroline Simpkins | Podcast TrailerWelcome to the Ballet Science Podcast! Learn about my journey from dancing in pointe shoes to earning a PhD in kinesiology and launching a podcast that bridges the worlds of ballet and science.I talk about how my experience as a professional dancer and ballet teacher inspired my research on fall prevention and biomechanics, and how this podcast will explore the science behind ballet, injury prevention, nutrition, mindset, and movement for dancers of all ages and levels.Whether you’re a dancer, teacher, student, or just curious about the science of movement, this episode offers insights into the intersection of...
2025-06-0104 minJournal of Neurophysiology
Journal of NeurophysiologyJNP Micro Podcasts: Enhancing Balance: How Ballet Practice Boosts Neuromuscular and Biomechanical Responses to Slips in Older AdultsIn this episode of the Journal of Neurophysiology's Podcast Series, coauthor Caroline Simpkins discusses the research titled "Ballet Practice Improves Neuromuscular and Biomechanical Responses to an Unexpected Standing-Slip in Older Adults." This study is the first to examine how older ballet dancers respond to an unexpected external slip while standing. Caroline shares fascinating findings that reveal how older ballet dancers have a reduced fall risk compared to their nondancer peers. This improved stability is attributed to quicker neuromuscular reactions, allowing dancers to execute a more effective recovery step and maintain greater balance against backward falls. Tune in to learn how ba...
2025-01-0907 minKUCI: Film School
KUCI: Film SchoolEdge of Everything / Film School Radio interview with Co-directors Sophia Sobella & Pablo FeldmanStraddling the line between childhood and adulthood, 14 isn’t an easy age for anyone, least of all Abby (Sierra McCormick, The Vast of Night), who’s forced to find her way in the world after her mother’s death. On the cusp of turning 15 and at a delicate moment in life, she’s forced to move in with her father (Jason Butler Harner, Ozark) and his younger girlfriend (Sabina Friedman-Seitz). Feeling alone in the world, the angry and determined teen strikes up a possibly dangerous friendship with the carefree and rebellious Caroline (Ryan Simpkins, The Fear Street Trilogy, The House), while expl...
2024-06-2516 minStaggering Stories - Every Podcast Ever!
Staggering Stories - Every Podcast Ever!Staggering Stories Podcast #155: The Ranking of DoomSummary: Adam J Purcell, Andy Simpkins, Fake Keith, Jean Riddler, the Real Keith Dunn and Scott Fuller continue cataloguing their favourite Doctor Who stories and a variety of other stuff, specifically: 00:00 – Intro and theme tune. 01:22 — Welcome! 02:37 – News: 02:46 — Doctor Who: Peter Jackson names his price. 04:08 — Firefly: Joss Whedon too busy to Kickstart. 06:59 — Doctor Who: Caroline Skinner: GONE! 10:22 — James Herbert: DEAD! 12:35 — Karen Gillan: Joins Adult Swim’s NTSF:SD:SUV. 14:22 — Doctor Who: Offical web site is a cesspit of spoilers. 15:52 — Justin Bieber: YouTube videos of death. 16:38 – Things in Five Words. 22:47 – Doctor Who: Favourite stories for each Doctor. 82:16 – Emails and listener feedback.* Hit us y...
2013-03-311h 59Staggering Stories Podcast – Staggering Stories Podcast
Staggering Stories Podcast – Staggering Stories PodcastStaggering Stories Podcast #155: The Ranking of DoomSummary: Adam J Purcell, Andy Simpkins, Fake Keith, Jean Riddler, the Real Keith Dunn and Scott Fuller continue cataloguing their favourite Doctor Who stories and a variety of other stuff, specifically: 00:00 – Intro and theme tune. 01:22 — Welcome! 02:37 – News: 02:46 — Doctor Who: Peter Jackson names his price. 04:08 — Firefly: Joss Whedon too busy to Kickstart. 06:59 — Doctor Who: Caroline Skinner: GONE! 10:22 — James Herbert: DEAD! 12:35 — Karen Gillan: Joins Adult Swim’s NTSF:SD:SUV. 14:22 — Doctor Who: Offical web site is a cesspit of spoilers. 15:52 — Justin Bieber: YouTube videos of death. 16:38 – Things in Five Words. 22:47 – Doctor Who: Favourite stories for each Doctor. 82:16 – Emails and listener feedback.* Hit us y...
2013-03-311h 59Staggering Stories Regular Podcasts
Staggering Stories Regular PodcastsStaggering Stories Podcast #155: The Ranking of DoomSummary: Adam J Purcell, Andy Simpkins, Fake Keith, Jean Riddler, the Real Keith Dunn and Scott Fuller continue cataloguing their favourite Doctor Who stories and a variety of other stuff, specifically: 00:00 – Intro and theme tune. 01:22 — Welcome! 02:37 – News: 02:46 — Doctor Who: Peter Jackson names his price. 04:08 — Firefly: Joss Whedon too busy to Kickstart. 06:59 — Doctor Who: Caroline Skinner: GONE! 10:22 — James Herbert: DEAD! 12:35 — Karen Gillan: Joins Adult Swim’s NTSF:SD:SUV. 14:22 — Doctor Who: Offical web site is a cesspit of spoilers. 15:52 — Justin Bieber: YouTube videos of death. 16:38 – Things in Five Words. 22:47 – Doctor Who: Favourite stories for each Doctor. 82:16 – Emails and listener feedback.* Hit us y...
2013-03-311h 59Staggering Stories Podcast – Staggering Stories Podcast
Staggering Stories Podcast – Staggering Stories PodcastStaggering Stories Podcast #136: Staggering Stories Live 2012!Summary: Adam J Purcell, Andy Simpkins, Fake Crumbly, Fake Keith, Jean Riddler and the Real Keith Dunn with special guests Luke Harrison and Siobhan Gallichan play the Doctor Who Trivia Smack Down Quiz, indulge in a very personal Fight Club, find some general news and a variety of riotous live behaviour (NOTE: with some bad language!), specifically: 00:00 – Intro and theme tune. 00:49 — Welcome! 02:39 – News: 03:05 — Doctor Who: Caroline John – Dead! 04:46 — Staggering Stories: We invaded Cardiff – Live! 06:68 – Doctor Who Trivia Smackdown. 35:55 – Fight Club: Jean vs. Fake Keith. 37:57 – 30 Second Recommendation: Kate Griffin’s The Minority Council novel. 41:12 – Farewell for this podcast! 42:03 — End theme, disclaimer, cop...
2012-07-0842 minStaggering Stories Regular Podcasts
Staggering Stories Regular PodcastsStaggering Stories Podcast #136: Staggering Stories Live 2012!Summary: Adam J Purcell, Andy Simpkins, Fake Crumbly, Fake Keith, Jean Riddler and the Real Keith Dunn with special guests Luke Harrison and Siobhan Gallichan play the Doctor Who Trivia Smack Down Quiz, indulge in a very personal Fight Club, find some general news and a variety of riotous live behaviour (NOTE: with some bad language!), specifically: 00:00 – Intro and theme tune. 00:49 — Welcome! 02:39 – News: 03:05 — Doctor Who: Caroline John – Dead! 04:46 — Staggering Stories: We invaded Cardiff – Live! 06:68 – Doctor Who Trivia Smackdown. 35:55 – Fight Club: Jean vs. Fake Keith. 37:57 – 30 Second Recommendation: Kate Griffin’s The Minority Council novel. 41:12 – Farewell for this podcast! 42:03 — End theme, disclaimer, cop...
2012-07-0842 minStaggering Stories - Every Podcast Ever!
Staggering Stories - Every Podcast Ever!Staggering Stories Podcast #136: Staggering Stories Live 2012!Summary: Adam J Purcell, Andy Simpkins, Fake Crumbly, Fake Keith, Jean Riddler and the Real Keith Dunn with special guests Luke Harrison and Siobhan Gallichan play the Doctor Who Trivia Smack Down Quiz, indulge in a very personal Fight Club, find some general news and a variety of riotous live behaviour (NOTE: with some bad language!), specifically: 00:00 – Intro and theme tune. 00:49 — Welcome! 02:39 – News: 03:05 — Doctor Who: Caroline John – Dead! 04:46 — Staggering Stories: We invaded Cardiff – Live! 06:68 – Doctor Who Trivia Smackdown. 35:55 – Fight Club: Jean vs. Fake Keith. 37:57 – 30 Second Recommendation: Kate Griffin’s The Minority Council novel. 41:12 – Farewell for this podcast! 42:03 — End theme, disclaimer, cop...
2012-07-0842 min