You know what unfortunately goes hand in hand with the greatest time of year? The dreaded cold and flu season. But, never fear—you can stay ahead of the curve this year by keeping your immune system working smoothly before the sniffles set in. We’ve rounded up our best tips and tricks to help you stay […]
From lattes to jack-o’-lanterns, pumpkins and October go hand in hand. But this super squash is way more than just a spooky staircase addition—it’s a performance-boosting powerhouse and a dancer’s best friend. Here are a few ways to reap the health benefits of this fall staple. In Your Food Thinkstock There are lots of delicious—and […]
You’ve probably heard that protein is essential in a dancer’s diet. But you might not know what protein actually does for your hardworking bod, how much you should be eating, and—gasp!—why it could actually be overrated. We asked Andrea Chernus (a registered dietitian nutritionist who advises Juilliard students and Hamilton cast members) and Nora Minno […]
More studio time = more improvement? Not always, according to Roman Zhurbin, American Ballet Theatre soloist and certified personal trainer. “It’s absolutely necessary to take rest days so your body can reset and you stay motivated,” says Zhurbin. “Seven days a week of hard training is just unhealthy.” What is healthy: letting your body recover […]
School cafeterias often conjure up less-than-appetizing images—mystery meats, mushy vegetables, and stale cheese sandwiches are just a few of the things that come to mind. And while this isn’t always the case, it can often be a challenge to follow a satisfying, dance-friendly diet if you’re buying your lunch at school. Dance Spirit asked Heidi […]
Knee pain is, unfortunately, just one of those things that happens when you’re a dancer. But how can you be sure that an annoying pinch here or a crunch there isn’t something more serious? Dance Spirit turned to Marijeanne Liederbach, PhD, PT, ATC, CSCS—who is also director of the Harkness Center for Dance Injuries at […]
Can my tampon get lost up there after one too many rehearsals? Should I skip cross-training in the pool during Aunt Flo’s visit? Does missing a period mean I’m dangerously underweight? When it comes to menstruation, everybody has an opinion—but few have the facts. We asked the experts to debunk common myths about that time […]
Turmeric, cayenne pepper, ginger, and garlic: They’re spice cabinet staples that double as performance-boosters. Dance Spirit turned to Emily Cook Harrison, a registered dietitian at Nutrition for Great Performances in Atlanta, GA, for a breakdown of their benefits, and the most effective ways to incorporate them into your diet. Turmeric Thinkstock “Turmeric is most commonly […]