In Part 2 of our two-part interview with physical therapist Erika Mayall, we explore how ballet schools are supporting dancer health—and where they still fall short. Erika offers practical advice for dancers and families without access to dance-specific care, busts common ballet injury myths, and shares her favorite recovery tools and daily habits for long-term wellness. She also discusses how to recognize genuine wellness support versus “checking the box” in schools and what one key change could improve injury prevention across ballet training.

Erika also has a fantastic podcast called The Dance Physio Podcast that we think every dancer and their parents should tune in and listen to. Find it wherever you get your podcasts or learn more on her website.

More Links:

• Support Ballet Help Desk
• Summer Intensive Essentials Guide
• Buy Summer Corrections Journals
• Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk
• Facebook: BalletHelpDesk
• Ballet Help Desk

Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

In Part 1 of our two-part interview with physical therapist Erika Mayall of Allegro Performance and Wellness, we dive into why ballet dancers need specialized care from providers who truly understand the unique demands ballet puts on the body. Erika shares her journey into working with dancers, how injury prevention differs for ballet artists, common misdiagnoses, and early warning signs dancers and parents should watch for. She also offers guidance on choosing the right specialist and how dancers can advocate for themselves in healthcare settings. Stay tuned for Part 2, where Erika discusses dancer wellness in schools, recovery tools, and long-term health habits.

Erika also has a fantastic podcast called The Dance Physio Podcast that we think every dancer and their parents should tune in and listen to. Find it wherever you get your podcasts or learn more on her website.

More Links:

• Support Ballet Help Desk
• Summer Intensive Essentials Guide
• Buy Summer Corrections Journals
• Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk
• Facebook: BalletHelpDesk
• Ballet Help Desk

Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI

Considering full-time or summer training at Louisville Ballet? Artistic Director Mikelle Bruzina and School Director Christy Corbitt Krieger explain how the school is structured, what the studio company experience involves, and how dancers transition into professional careers. They also share insights on tuition, housing, casting, and how dancers are recruited. This episode offers a clear, behind-the-scenes look for dancers and families exploring the path through Louisville Ballet.

Learn more about Louisville Ballet's training options on their website

More Links:

• Support Ballet Help Desk
• Summer Intensive Essentials Guide
• Buy Summer Corrections Journals
• Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk
• Facebook: BalletHelpDesk
• Ballet Help Desk

Music from #Uppbeat:

https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future

License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZCI