Shows
Athletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerStop Chasing the Outcome — Own the MomentIn this episode of Athletistry: Ballet Evolution, Shane Wuerthner dives deep into the mindset dancers need heading into competition season. Inspired by the story of The Way of the Peaceful Warrior, he unpacks the myth of the "outcome" and why obsessing over results robs dancers of the joy they’ve earned.You’ll walk away with a grounded, powerful mindset to approach your next performance — not with fear, but with purpose.🎯 If you've ever felt anxious before walking onstage, this one's for you.⏱️ Chapters & Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome back 01:30 – The inspiration...2025-04-1210 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerArtistry Takes Time: Why You Can’t Rush Expression in BalletIn this episode of Athletistry: Ballet Evolution, Shane Wuerthner dives deep into the misunderstood world of artistry in ballet—what it is, how it develops, and why telling dancers to “show more artistry” is often unhelpful and misdirected.Shane unpacks his personal journey with artistic growth, shares insights from his time dancing Vronski in Anna Karenina, and breaks down how life experience, emotional maturity, and mentorship shape an artist over time. He also explores how competitions and training environments may unintentionally limit expression by hyper-focusing on technique.You’ll learn:Why artistry shouldn’t be expec...2025-04-0717 min
Dance Real Podcast"I Never Won A Competition" - Game changer, Shane Wuerthner on Rethinking DanceEp: 08 "I Never Won a Dance Competition and Still became Principal Dancer"
Rethinking the Dance Industry with Shane Wuerthner In this thought-provoking episode, Shane Wuerthner shares game-changing insights that challenge conventional perspectives in the dance world. From perfectionism and competition culture to body composition and beyond, Shane delves into key issues shaping the industry today. Through the lens of his own journey—from professional ballet dancer to coach and founder of Athletistry—he offers invaluable lessons that will leave you both educated and inspired. He opens up about the challenges dancers face, the pressures of competition, and the...2025-03-2555 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerAre Competitions the Key to Ballet Success?In this episode ofAthletistry Ballet Evolution, Shane Wuerthner takes a deep dive into the world of ballet competitions. Do they truly pave the way for a successful career, or are they just another high-stakes performance that rewards tricks over artistry?Shane shares his personal journey through the competition circuit—from his early days in tap to major ballet competitions like YAGP and the Helsinki International Ballet Competition. He reflects on the lessons learned, the pressures of competing, and why he ultimately realized that winning wasn’t the key to his professional career.Through candid storytelling and...2025-02-1020 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerCreating Athletistry Academy: A New Vision for DanceSummaryIn this episode, Shane Wuerthner shares his journey from a young ballet dancer to a professional in the dance industry, and his transition into fitness and personal training. He discusses the challenges he faced after his dance career and how they led him to create Athletistry Academy, a comprehensive dance training facility that integrates academics and professional training. Shane emphasises the importance of community engagement and collaboration in making dance accessible and enriching for future generations.To support the future of dance and the creation of Athletistry Academy...2024-12-0316 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerExploring Dance in the Age of Social MediaSummary
In this episode, Shane Wuerthner discusses the evolving landscape of dance and its perception through social media. He reflects on a recent Instagram post that sparked varied reactions, highlighting the subjectivity of art and the impact of audience feedback. Shane emphasizes the importance of communication in dance, the role of critique, and the balance between technique and emotional expression. He invites listeners to engage in a dialogue about the nature of art and its reception in today's digital age.
Takeaways
The way we...2024-11-2818 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerBalancing Tradition and Modern Approaches to TrainingIn this episode, Shane Wuerthner reflects on his recent experiences in Malaysia and Singapore, where he observed the training and discipline of dancers. He emphasises the importance of respect for teachers and the history of the art form. Shane discusses the need to balance discipline and respect with modern approaches to training, such as proper conditioning and support for dancers' body image. He also addresses the issue of ageism in ballet and the importance of allowing dancers to mature and develop their artistry. Shane concludes by highlighting the significance of storytelling and historical context in ballet performances.
2024-09-0219 min
Ballet Help DeskShane Wuerthner On What It Will Take For Ballet Schools To ChangeJoin us for a candid conversation with Shane Wuerthner, former professional ballet dancer and current master trainer and teacher to hear him talk about how wellness programs in ballet schools have evolved since he was in training. Shane also weighs in on what he thinks of coded language, the power imbalance that exists in ballet as well as how improving diversity in ballet really needs to start with increasing diversity in ballet schools. Tune in to hear all of this and much more! Learn more about Shane: Athletistry Facebook: Athletistrystudio Instagram: @athletistry Links: Ballet...2024-07-171h 30
No Starving ArtistsShane Wuerthner - Athletistry | No Starving Artists Podcast
Welcome back to the No Starving Artists podcast. Episode 1 of Season 2 starts off with a bang featuring the Shane Wuerthner AKA Athletistry. We chat about Ballet, the physicality of dance and more!
Shanes links:
https://www.instagram.com/athletistry/
https://www.athletistry.au/home-1
This podcast is directed at artists, specifically dancers, looking to take their dancing to the next level. Each episode I'll have a different artist with a different background but all with one thing in common - they've elevated their artistry in one way or another.
My hope is that this will inspire younger artists to...2024-07-1556 min
No Starving ArtistsShane Wuerthner - Athletistry | No Starving Artists Podcast
Welcome back to the No Starving Artists podcast. Episode 1 of Season 2 starts off with a bang featuring the Shane Wuerthner AKA Athletistry. We chat about Ballet, the physicality of dance and more!
Shanes links:
https://www.instagram.com/athletistry/
https://www.athletistry.au/home-1
This podcast is directed at artists, specifically dancers, looking to take their dancing to the next level. Each episode I'll have a different artist with a different background but all with one thing in common - they've elevated their artistry in one way or another.
My hope is that this will inspire younger artists to...2024-07-1556 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerCreating Beautiful Art on Stage through PartneringSummary
The conversation discusses the topic of partnering in ballet. The host emphasises that the focus should be on technique rather than weight. He shares his own experience with partnering, starting at a young age and the challenges he faced. He highlights the importance of teaching boys how to put girls on their leg and find balance. The host also discusses the physical strength and muscle development required for partnering, as well as the coordination and communication between partners. He emphasizes the importance of trust, relationship, and technique in creating beautiful art on stage.2024-06-1210 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerThe Progression of Skills in ballet and in lifeSummary
In this episode, Shane discusses the progression of skills and how they apply to ballet. He shares his experience transitioning from dance to personal training and the importance of coaching and imparting knowledge. Shane explains the four levels of competency in skill development: unconscious incompetence, conscious incompetence, conscious competence, and unconscious competence. He also emphasizes the need for patience, kindness, and effective communication in teaching and learning. Overall, the episode highlights the complexity of teaching movement and the importance of understanding individual learning styles.
Takeaways
2024-06-1110 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerThe Impact of Body Image and Dysmorphia in the Dance WorldSummary
The conversation discusses the issue of body image and dysmorphia in the dance world. It highlights the harmful effects of the industry's emphasis on a specific body shape and size. The host shares personal experiences of being criticised for being too thin and the pressure to conform to a certain standard. The conversation also explores the different body compositions and morphologies of individuals and how training in specific sports or activities can shape the body. The historical development of the ideal dancer's body is examined, and the need to shift the focus from...2024-06-1011 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerArtistry? what's that mean?Summary
In this podcast episode, Shane discusses the importance of artistic expression in dance competitions and the challenges dancers face in developing their artistry. He emphasizes the need for dancers to understand and portray emotion, narrative, and connection in their performances. Shane also explores the idea of dancers explaining their role development and character understanding to judges, sparking a debate about the role of voice in dance. He highlights the significance of punctuation in dance and the stages of development in becoming an artist. Shane concludes by advocating for the integration of master artists...2024-06-0914 min
THE HARD CORPS PODCAST1. How turning down a contract can lead you to the right one in conversation with AthletistryHi everyone and welcome back to the podcast! Welcome to SERIES 7!
for this weeks episode, I am joined by Shane Wuerthner, probably better known as Athletistry on Instagram.
We talk about his journey through professional ballet training, audition season and his experience of turning down a contract at the Royal Danish Ballet, and how this led him to go on to dancer soloist roles at Vienna State Opera, San Francisco Ballet, and Queensland Ballet, where he retired to settle down in Australia.
During lockdown Shane started personal training, which led him to where he is today, the creator of ‘Athletistry’ and...2024-05-211h 08Athletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerThe DreamSummary
In this conversation, Shane Wuerthner shares his dream of creating a 21st century training institute for ballet in Australia. He envisions three pathways: pre-professional elite education, education for young dancers who have a love for ballet but may not want a professional career, and a space for adults to develop an understanding of dance. Shane believes that by expanding access to dance and creating a future generation of respect and love for the art form, ballet can remain relevant and valued in society. He invites others to join him in creating this space...2024-03-2614 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerWhat Performing Your Class Really MeansSummary
In this episode, Shane Wuerthner discusses the confusion surrounding the concept of performing class. He shares his personal experiences and the feedback he received from teachers and choreographers. Shane emphasises the importance of precision and discipline in dance, both in the studio and on stage. He highlights the idea that performance is the culmination of the work done in the studio and that dancers need to approach their classwork with clarity and intention. Shane also explores the challenge of balancing technique and artistry, emphasizing the need for dancers to master their technical skills...2024-02-2710 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerHarmonic Resonance: Dancing the Universe's SongSummary
In this episode, Shane explores the power of dance as a physical representation of music and its connection to the universe. He discusses the language of dance and its ability to communicate emotions and desires on a deep level. Shane emphasizes the importance of authentic expression in dance and the role it plays in connecting with the vibrations of the universe. He also highlights the communicative responsibility of dance and the need for emotional expression in performances. Ultimately, Shane encourages dancers to embrace dance as a vehicle for expressing the harmonic resonance of...2024-02-2018 min
Athletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerEmpowering Dancers: Navigating Body Image, Mental Health, and Holistic Development*Please be aware this podcast includes discussion of eating disorders and body dysmorphia. Listener discretion is advised.*
Summary
In this conversation, Lucy Christodoulou and Shane Wuerthner discuss the impact of body image on dancers and the need for comprehensive support in dance education. They highlight the contradictory aesthetic expectations for male and female dancers and the importance of performance psychology and proper training. They emphasize the role of collaboration and advocacy in the dance industry and the importance of balancing dance and personal development. Lucy shares her own experiences with eating disorders...2024-02-0243 min
Athletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerFrom Classroom to Stage: Navigating the Ballet Professional's Journey, auditions, companies and more!Summary
In this episode, Caitlin Sloan shares her journey from classical ballet to contemporary ballet and how she found her true passion. She discusses the challenges of transitioning to a different path and the importance of taking risks and trusting your gut. Caitlin also talks about her transition to coaching and mentoring dancers, offering advice for those looking to pursue professional careers. She provides insights on how to get into company class auditions and encourages dancers to ask for help and make personal connections. To learn more about Caitlin and her mentoring services, visit...2024-01-1833 min
Athletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerBeyond the Studio: Navigating Balance, Transition, and Self-Care in DanceSummary
In this conversation, Shane Wuerthner interviews Jessica Spinner from The Whole Dancer. They discuss the importance of balance and self-care in the dance world, the challenges of transitioning out of dance, and the benefits of having a life outside of dance. They also touch on the limitations of identifying solely as a dancer and the need for a holistic approach to dance training. Jessica shares her coaching approach for dancers and offers advice for young dancers in training and dancers in transition. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of self-discovery, self-compassion, and seeking outside support in...2024-01-0443 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerPlie Perspectives episode 1In this episode titled 'Plie Perspectives,' Shane Wuerthner shares his insights and experiences as a dancer and coach. He emphasises the importance of going above and beyond what is expected in order to achieve success in a dance career.
Shane discusses the need to know when to pull back and find balance, as well as setting intentions and focusing on improvement. He also highlights the importance of being part of a team and showing initiative. Shane shares personal stories of setbacks and challenges, and encourages listeners to push boundaries and challenge their comfort...2023-12-2820 min
Athletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerThe Dance of Resilience with Daisy SextonIn this inspiring episode of "Athletistry Ballet Evolution" we interview 14-year-old ballet prodigy Daisy Sexton. Daisy shares her journey of overcoming a major ACL injury at 11 and the challenges she faced in the demanding world of ballet training. She discusses her recovery, her innovative approach to training, and her excitement about her upcoming full-time ballet training with Sander Blommaert in the UK. Daisy also reveals her aspirations to join her dream company, The Royal Ballet. Join us for this intimate conversation, unveiling the resilience and passion of a young dancer poised for greatness.
Be sure to follow...2023-12-2123 min
Athletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerHarmonising Movement and Healing: Navigating the Dance of Physical Therapy in BalletIn this enlightening episode of Athletistry Ballet Evolution, host Shane Wuerthner engages in a captivating conversation with Dr. Jemimah Simms @doctorwhodances on instagram, a seasoned physical therapist with a rich background in dance and personal training. Titled "Harmonising Movement and Healing: Navigating the Dance of Physical Therapy in Ballet," this episode delves deep into the often-overlooked realm of injury prevention, rehabilitation, and the essential role of physical therapy in the world of dance.
Listeners will embark on a journey through personal anecdotes and professional insights, as Shane and Dr. Simms share their experiences with...2023-12-141h 00Athletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerNavigating Ballet Training, Setting Goals, and Overcoming Bullying: A Candid Q&AIn this insightful episode of "Athletistry Ballet Evolution," host Shane Wuerthner delves into the nuances of professional ballet training through a comprehensive Q&A session. Shane shares his expert advice on the ideal age to begin full-time ballet training, the necessity of intensive practice, and tips for creating impactful audition videos. He emphasizes the importance of balancing physical training with academic pursuits, preparing for the rigors of a dance career, and the implications of early training on physical development and injury prevention. Furthermore, Shane addresses goal setting in ballet, offering a unique perspective on aligning emotional elements with aspirations...2023-12-1420 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerNavigating Opportunities and Mentorship in Ballet: Lessons from Auditions to Professional GrowthIn this insightful episode of 'Athletistry Ballet Evolution,' we delve into the pivotal aspects of a dancer's journey, from the nerve-wracking auditions to the invaluable mentorship that shapes a ballet career. Our guests, seasoned professionals in the ballet world, share their personal experiences and the lessons learned along the way. They offer practical advice on how to navigate auditions, the importance of resilience in the face of rejection, and the critical role of mentors in guiding and nurturing a dancer's growth. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for aspiring dancers, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the...2023-12-0618 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerEn Pointe but Overlooked: Handling the Success of Others in DanceIn this insightful episode of Athletistry Ballet Evolution, host Shane Wuerthner delves into a sensitive yet ubiquitous experience in the dance world - witnessing peers attain the very opportunities you've been striving for. Shane explores the complex emotions that surface when others around you are stepping into the spotlight you've been eyeing. From understanding the roots of these feelings to navigating through them constructively, this episode offers practical strategies and heartfelt advice for dancers grappling with this challenge.
Listeners will gain insights into why certain dancers get selected over others and how to manage feelings of disappointment and envy. More...2023-11-2119 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerThe Cost of Elegance: Unveiling the Financial Realities of BalletEpisode 8 of "Athletistry Ballet Evolution," hosted by Shane Wuerthner, delves into the challenging and often misunderstood world of professional ballet. In this episode, Shane shares his personal journey into the prestigious Kirov Academy and discusses the rigorous selection process, highlighting the low acceptance rates and the intense competition faced by aspiring ballet dancers.
The episode also explores the societal perception of ballet as a profession, addressing the common misconception that it's more of a hobby than a legitimate career. Shane candidly speaks about the financial realities of being a professional dancer, revealing the stark...2023-11-1322 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerEpisode 7: The Future Of BalletIn episode 7 of "Athletistry Ballet Evolution," host Shane Wuerthner delves into the evolving landscape of ballet as an art form and its place in contemporary society. Drawing from his own experiences—including a noteworthy application for the role of Artistic Director at Queensland Ballet—Shane offers a critical examination of ballet's public perception and its need for revolutionary change.
He discusses the diminished recognition of ballet dancers compared to stars in other fields and the lack of connection between ballet companies and their audiences. Shane argues that ballet should celebrate its performers as much as i...2023-11-0821 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerDancing on a Broken Stage: The Art of Resilience in BalletStep into the world of "Athletistry Ballet Evolution," where the passion for dance meets the reality of its physical and mental demands. In this episode, join me as I reflect on my personal experiences with injury, the lessons it taught me about the necessity of communication, self-advocacy, and the nuanced understanding required to navigate the challenging terrain of professional dance.
Dive deep into the dynamics of the dance studio, where the relationship between student and teacher is pivotal and complex. We discuss the often unspoken struggles with pushing our limits versus recognising the signs of injury and...2023-11-0719 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerQ&A: Strength Training For DancersStep into the dynamic convergence of athleticism and artistry in this compelling episode of "Athletistry Ballet Evolution," featuring movement specialist Shane Wuerthner. In a world where the physical demands on dancers continue to escalate, Shane offers a fresh perspective on how to cultivate resilience and excellence through informed cross-training practices.
Dive deep into the conversation as Shane discusses the delicate balance between rigorous dance schedules and the necessity for structured rest. He addresses the oft-neglected aspect of tapering before performances, drawing parallels with sports science to outline strategies that ensure dancers hit their peak when the curtain...2023-11-0322 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerDeveloping The Confidence To Ask For What You WantIn this enlightening episode, we dive deep into the world of professional dance with Shane Wuerthner. From the electric atmosphere of the stage to the dimly lit corners of self-doubt and uncertainty, Shane takes us on a journey of perseverance, advocacy, and passion. Discover how a last-minute role as Albrecht in "Giselle" became a turning point in his career, the importance of advocating for oneself in the arts, and the lessons he's gleaned from moments of triumph and despair. Whether you're a dancer, an artist, or someone seeking inspiration in the face of challenges, Shane's story is a testament...2023-10-3121 min
Athletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerFinding Balance: Ballet, Biomechanics, and Beyond with Jennifer MilnerIn this captivating episode, we have the pleasure of conversing with the multi-talented Jennifer Milner, a renowned ballet coach, certified Pilates trainer, and an authority in post-injury recoveries. Jennifer's rich journey from dancing with several ballet companies to her pivotal role in the Phantom of the Opera in New York gives her a unique stanpoint to offer profound insights into the world of dance. After a knee injury shifted her trajectory, Jennifer immersed herself in the Pilates method and dance medicine, working closely with celebrated figures such as Kelly Kane and Marika Molnar.
An advocate for hypermobility...2023-10-2735 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerEpisode 2: Fruits Of Our FailuresIn this episode Shane shares a story of a recent failure he experience in his life, the lessons learned and how to help yourself by understanding that our failures are what help us to learn and evolve.
How do we break away from a plateau and how do we ask the right questions to help us break away from the perceived negativity of failure to learn to use it as a tool for success.2023-10-2417 minAthletistry Ballet Evolution with Shane WuerthnerEpisode 1: My StoryDive into "Athletistry Ballet Evolution" with Shane Wuerthner, tracing his transformative journey from San Francisco's Marin Ballet to his dance career and beyond. Shane offers genuine insights and stories from the dance realm, aiming to cut through its B.S. and uplift aspiring dancers. Tune in for pure knowledge, professional guidance, and an invitation to embrace excellence in the ballet world.2023-10-2031 min
Nutrition for Dancers with The Dance Nutritionist®Redefining Healthy Goals with Shane Wuerthner, Ballet Coach and Strength Coach at Athletistry Ballet ClubIn this episode of Conversations with The Pros, Dance Dietitian and Nutritionist for Dancers Rachel Fine sits down with Shane Wuerthner, Ballet Coach and Strength Coach at Athletistry Ballet Club
Want to become The Healthy Dancer®? Follow: https://www.instagram.com/tothepointenutrition/ and show more👇 to access dance nutrition goodness.
From freebies and downloadable guides to workbooks and online courses, dancers can access everything they need to learn about building a nourishing lifestyle that supports the physical, mental, and emotional demands of dance. Nutrition for Dancers: https://dancenutrition.com/
For Dance Parents: https://dancenutrition.com/dance-parents-teachers/
Nutrition is e...2023-07-3134 min
Inside Dance with Taylor & AlexBallet Principal to Sports Medicine & NLP Coach: Shane Wuerthner!We all know dancers are athletes of the arts and we are grateful to discuss this with the amazing Shane Wuerthner! Having danced for several years with Vienna State Opera, San Francisco Ballet, and Queensland Ballet, this ballet principal shifted his focus to strengthening dancers & artists world wide though his company Athletistry Ballet Club. This is the perfect episode for any dancer struggling with certain technical abilities and curious how to overcome these obstacles through conditioning. Be sure to rate, review, subscribe, and refer a friend!SOCIALS:Shane Wuerthner - @athletistryUs! - @insidedancepodcastA...2023-03-091h 04