Nobody likes having a period. It’s messy, it’s often painful and it doesn’t go well with a leotard and tights. But as much of a nuisance as your monthly visitor may be, not getting it can be an indication of a serious issue. “A period is about much more than just bleeding once a month—it […]
Girls know that growing up means growing breasts. But for dancers, going through this change can be extra awkward—especially since we spend hours in leotards, analyzing our bodies in the mirror. We’ve got your breast interests in mind! Read on for answers to your most embarrassing boob-related questions, from size and shape to hair and […]
(iStock) When most people think of massage, they imagine a luxurious, white-robed spa experience. But you don’t have to spend big bucks to get a good, beneficial massage. Basic massage therapy for dancers does more than relax and de-stress your body—it helps muscles recover faster by reducing inflammation and releasing tight spots. Getting massages on […]
Whether shredded, melted or sliced, cheese can transform an ordinary meal into a culinary delight. Unfortunately, it often gets a bad rep—since that fantastic taste comes with a lot of calories, fat and sodium. But while filling your daily diet with nachos, macaroni and cheese, and pizza isn’t the best way to get through long […]
Megan Fairchild in George Balanchine’s Theme and Variations (by Paul Kolnik) Six Dance Bag Must-Haves Whether you’re spending your summer competing at Nationals, taking classes at your studio or training at an intensive, it’s important to make sure nothing stops you from dancing your best. Muscle cramps, blisters and even jittery nerves can all be […]
We love Kashi Trail Mix Chewy Granola Bars (courtesy Kashi) There’s no doubt about it: Competitions are stressful. You’re often stuck shuttling between dressing rooms, ballrooms and hotel rooms, usually without access to healthy food—or refrigerators. That’s why we enlisted Peggy Swistak, MS, RD, CD, of Pacific Northwest Ballet, to share a list of nonperishable […]
(by Nathan Sayers) Energy bars are one of the easiest snacks to toss in your dance bag, but it can be tough to find one with all the right ingredients. So why not make your own? We enlisted Marie Elena Scioscia, a registered dietician and sports nutritionist who works for The Ailey School, to help […]
What you see isn’t always what you get: Dancers with body dysmorphic disorder have a distorted perception of their appearance. (Illustrations by Lealand Eve) When dance student Monica developed hips a few years ago, she began struggling with new insecurities. Now 15, Monica remembers staring unhappily at her body in the mirror. “Eventually, I […]