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Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT In this episode: Tara Christensen, DPT explores the vital field of dance medicine, highlighting its importance for dancer health, injury prevention, and performance.  She shares her journey, insights and practical advice for integrating dance medicine into dancers’ routines. Topics explored include: The definition and importance of dance medicineDifferences between professional and competitive dancersThe multidisciplinary approach to dance healthInjury prevention and management strategiesThe impact of training load and growth on dancer healthCommunication between healthcare providers and dance studiosThe importance of early injury detection and reportingProactive measures in dance medicine, including screenings and education Looking for a dance medicine specialist in your area?  Check out doctorsfordancers.com Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  [email protected] Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Hardyston, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com If you enjoyed this content, please leave us a review and tell your friends!

Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guest: Todd Shanks In this episode (Episode description/overview): We welcome Todd Shanks to the podcast! Todd has a long resume full of dance, choreography and teaching experience.   As a performer he has danced in TV commercials, music videos, and programs including “The View” and “Good Day NY”.  He also performed on field at Gillette stadium on field for the 2015 and 2017 NFL Kickoff shows featuring T-Pain and FloRida. As a choreographer his experience ranges from the studio to the stage, to television and even the ice skating rink. As a teacher, Todd was on faculty at Steps on Broadway for over a decade, has been a guest choreographer at numerous universities, dance companies and private studios across the US.  He is currently the Program Coordinator for the Palladino School of Dance and a full time Artist In Residence at Dean College.  You can also find him on tour with Manhattan Dance Project and Dance Educators of America. In this episode, Todd  shares his expertise on tap dance training, warm-up routines, injury prevention, and the importance of mental health in dance. Perfect for dancers, teachers, and parents looking to enhance their tap practice and understanding. We cover: Tap warm-up techniques tailored for tap dancersInjury prevention strategies specific to tap danceThe importance of core stability and balance in tapCardiovascular training for dancersChoosing the right shoes for safety and performanceMental health and burnout in dance studentsHistorical and stylistic considerations in tap trickeryAdjudication perspectives on tricks and safetyCross-training and proprioceptive exercises for dancersThe role of music and rhythm in warm-up and performanceFollow Todd on Instagram: @toddshanks Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  [email protected] Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Hardyston, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com Like what you’re hearing? Leave us a review on Apple podcasts.

Send us Fan Mail  In this Episode:  Kamini Mirchandani shares her journey from dancer to founder of Stari Beauty, a brand dedicated to creating natural, high-performance stage makeup for young performers. Discover how her background in dance inspired her product line and her vision for supporting young performers with safe, effective makeup options. We cover: Kamini's dance background and its influence on her product lineThe importance of natural, safe ingredients in kids' makeupProduct development balancing performance and natural ingredientsExpansion plans for the product line including future productsBuilding relationships with dance studios and storesYou can shop Stari Beauty products at: https://www.staribeauty.com/ Follow Stari Beauty on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stari_beauty Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  [email protected] Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Hardyston, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com Like what you’re hearing? Leave us a review on Apple podcasts.

Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guests: Kristina Cross and Brie Pena In this episode: Moms Kristina Cross and Brie Pina share their journey of founding Elevation on Tour, a dance convention and competition platform focused on creating supportive environments for dancers of all skill levels. They discuss their unique approach to judging, scheduling, and fostering positive experiences in the dance community.  They cover: The origins of Elevation on Tour and its Texas rootsHow the platform emphasizes inclusivity and support for all dancersTheir innovative judging system Scheduling strategies to reduce stress and improve experienceThe importance of age-appropriate content and costuming in dance competitionsPartnerships with brands and other dance organizationsThe difference between dance competitions and conventions, and their integrationSubmit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  [email protected] Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Hardyston, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com Like what you’re hearing? Leave us a review on Apple podcasts.

Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guest: Prisha Sasikumar In this episode: We explore how young innovator Prisha Sasikumar is transforming the dance community with her tech-savvy approach, launching the app danZING specifically designed for dancers and studios. Tune in to hear her inspiring story and the future of dance technology. About danZING by DanceVibes danZING is a new app built specifically for competitive dance studios to replace the chaos of group chats, emails, and scattered schedules—so dancers, parents, and teachers can stay fully organized in one place. Corrections (synced to timestamps), file storage, packing checklists, and more in one app! We’re currently preparing for our official June launch and opening early access to a limited number of studios. For Studio Directors & Teachers Streamline communication and team organization without the back-and-forth. → Join early access: growithdancevibes.com/danzing → UNTIL JUNE 20TH: Onboard your studio to receive one month free and 25% lifetime discount + direct input on features For Dancers Know exactly what’s happening—rehearsals, checklists, videos—all in one place so you can focus on performing, not scrambling. → Get early access: growithdancevibes.com/danzing For Dance Parents Stay in the loop without the stress—no more missed updates or last-minute confusion. → Sign up for access: growithdancevibes.com/danzing Learn more about DanceVibes and danZING: growithdancevibes.com Follow Prisha: instagram.com/prisha.sasikumar Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  [email protected] Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com If you enjoyed this content, please leave us a review and tell your friends!

Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT In this episode: In this second episode of the growth related injury series, we discuss Osgood Schlatter Disease.  Discover causes, symptoms, what it is and how it can be treated. References: Corbi, Francisco et al., “Osgood-Schlatter Disease:  Appearance, Diagnosis and Treatment: A Narrative Review”.  Healthcare 2022, 10, 1011.  https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare10061011 Antich, TJ MS, PT, Brewster, Clive E MS, PT.  “Osgood-Schlatter Disease: Review of Literature and Physical Therapy Management”.  The Journal of Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy.  Vol. 7, No1:5-10. Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  [email protected] Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com If you enjoyed this content, please leave us a review and tell your friends!

Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT In this episode: In this first episode of a series on growth related injuries, Dr. Tara outlines what parents should know about Sever’s Disease. References: Hernandez-Lucas, Pablo, Leiros-Rodrigues, Raquel, Garcia-Lineira, Jesus, Diaz-Buil, Helena.  “Conservative Treatment of Sever’s Disease: A Systematic Review”.  Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2024, 13, 1391.  Https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13051391 Nieto-Gil, Pilar et al., “Risk factors and associated factors for Calcaneal apophysitis (Sever’s disease): a systematic review”.  BMJ Open 2023, 13:e064903. Doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2022-064903 Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  [email protected] Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com If you enjoyed this content, please leave us a review and tell your friends!

Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT In this episode: This episode discusses what the evidence states regarding youth sports guidelines including: Early sport specializationRecommended training hoursLong-term athlete developmentBurnoutOvertraining How parents and studios can support healthy growthI also explain how having a skilled physical therapist in your corner can help to mitigate some of the above concerns and enhance training, provide education and guidance for young dancers to prevent injury, burnout, and overtraining.  References: NSCA 10 Pillars of Successful Long-Term Athletic Development adapted from LLoyd et al, Journal of Strength Cond Res. 2016 Jayanthi, Neeru MD, et. al., “Developmental Training Model for the Sport Specialized Youth Athlete: A Dynamic Strategy for Individualizing Load-Response During Maturation”. Sports Health. Vol 14, No 1; 142-153. Brenner, MD et al.  “Overuse Injuries, Overtraining, and Burnout in Young Athletes”, Pediatrics Volume 153, No.2, February 2024:e2023065129  Resources:  Doctors for Dancers - https://doctorsfordancers.com International Association for Dance Medicine and Science (IADMS) - https://www.iadms.org Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  [email protected] Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com If you enjoyed this content, please leave us a review and tell your friends!

Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guest: Angel Miller In this episode: This episode explores the complexities of balancing competitive dance, family life, and personal goals. Hosts Tara Christensen and Angel Miller share insights on managing training schedules, financial considerations, and supporting children's exploration of interests beyond dance. Main points:  Balancing dance training with family lifeResearching dance studios and schedulesFinancial considerations in competitive danceSupporting children's exploration of interestsThe importance of goal setting and communication Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  [email protected] Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com If you enjoyed this content, please leave us a review and tell your friends!

Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guest: Angel Miller In this episode,  nutrition counselor Angel Miller discusses practical strategies for optimizing dance competition day nutrition.  Nutrition plays a vital role in an athlete's performance, especially for dancers who require stamina, strength, and agility. Starting the day with the right foods sets the tone for success. Dancers often face long hours, with early morning practices and late-night awards ceremonies, making it essential to keep their energy levels up.  Listen to hear our tips on how to optimize nutrition on competition and convention weekends. Chapters 00:00 Fueling Dancer Athletes: An Introduction 02:34 Nutrition Essentials for Competition Day 06:51 Snacking Strategies for Long Competition Days 10:20 Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Competition Nutrition 14:54 Understanding Dancer Nutrition as Athletic Fuel 16:34 The Importance of Consistent Energy 29:59 Practical Tips for Eating Out During Competitions 33:22 Hydration: The Key to Performance 35:05 Navigating Nutritional Choices for Dancers 39:02 Healthy Snack Options for Competitions 52:34 Building Healthy Eating Habits 01:00:01 Practical Tips for Busy Families Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  [email protected] Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com If you enjoyed this content, please leave us a review and tell your friends!

Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guest: Nicole Perry MFA, CLMA In this episode: I interview movement professional Nicole Perry, who shares her extensive background in dance education, intimacy coordination, and trauma-informed teaching. We discuss the importance of communication, power dynamics, and consent in dance education, as well as the need for professional development for teachers. Nicole emphasizes the significance of creating safe spaces for students and the role of self-advocacy in their learning journey. The conversation highlights the necessity of understanding discomfort versus safety and the impact of trauma-informed practices in fostering a supportive learning environment. Takeaways Power dynamics in dance education can influence student behavior and learning.Clear communication of expectations is crucial in dance studios.Touch in dance education should be approached with consent and care.Trauma-informed teaching practices help create safe learning environments.Closure practices can help students transition between emotional states.Self-advocacy is essential for students in dance education.Understanding the difference between discomfort and safety is vital for dancers.Consent should be a foundational aspect of dance education.Professional development for dance teachers is necessary for effective teaching.Check Nicole out at: nicoleperry.org TikTok & Instagram: @intimacychoreofl Order Nicole’s book: https://a.co/d/49cUXuV Momentum Stage: https://www.momentumstage.org/ Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  [email protected] Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com If you enjoyed this content, please leave us a review and tell your friends!

Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guests: Jessica (Fernandez) Loscalzo Owner: The Dance Bag In this episode:   🌟 Ever wondered what it takes to create a thriving dance convention? 💃 Dive into the journey of Jessica Lascalzo, owner of the Dance Bag, as she shares how she turned a slow retail season into an unforgettable one-day dance event!  Jessica Lascalzo created the Dance Bag Convention to connect young dancers with top-notch instructors while also providing studio owners with direct access to dance product manufacturers. The Dance Bag Convention is more than just a dance event; it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and the love of dance. By focusing on education, quality instruction, and personal connections, Jessica Lascalzo has created a nurturing environment for young dancers to thrive. Whether you are a dancer, a studio owner, or a parent, the Dance Bag Convention offers valuable experiences that resonate long after the event.  Jessica also shares her experiences as a competitive dancer, professional dancer (she was a top 14 finalist on Season 2 of So You Think You Can Dance), dance teacher, and now dance store owner!  Her passion for dance carries through in her customer service and her passion for helping dancers and dance families find the right supplies and shoes for their needs.  We also chat about pointe shoe fitting and how she creates a personalized experience for every dancer.   You can find The Dance Bag on Instagram at: @thedancebagnj Check them out online: https://www.thedancebag.com/ You can register for The Dance Bag convention at: https://www.thedancebag.com/toes Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  [email protected] Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com Leave us a review on Apple podcasts. Tell your friends about us!!!

Send us Fan Mail Hosted by:  Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guests: Julie Kidd In this episode:  I chat with Julie Kidd, a multifaceted dance mom, educator, and comedian. Julie shares her journey in the dance world, including her children's experiences in competitive dance and their successes, as well as a devastating family tragedy and the impact it had on her as she continued as a dance parent.  We really had no “agenda” in this conversation, but I wanted to explore the full circle journey of a dancer who has grown through teaching and parenting their own professional dancers.  The conversation explores the evolution of dance education, the impact of social media on dance careers, and the challenges of balancing motherhood with a dance career.  Julie also emphasizes the importance of self-care and mental health for dancers, as well as the significance of teaching dance in different cultural contexts.  We also discuss the multifaceted world of competitive dance, exploring the pressures faced by young dancers, the importance of nutrition, the role of parents, and the evolving nature of dance as a sport. We discuss the need for a healthy studio culture, the impact of competition on dancers' careers, and the significance of building confidence through dance.  Julie shares her experiences as a dance mom and teacher, offering valuable insights and advice for parents navigating the competitive dance landscape. Julie on TikTok: @juliekiddcomedian Julie’s Website: juliekidd.com Jasmine on Insta and TikTok: @jasminemason_ Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  [email protected] Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com Leave us a review on Apple podcasts. Tell your friends about us!!!

Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guest: Jason Pickett In this episode: I sat down with Jason Pickett to discuss the role of acro in competitive dance.  We touched on additional topics including the impact of influencer culture and the need for better regulation in competitive dance and dance education.  We explored some of the pressures dancers and parents face regarding acro skills, safer ways to train and the need for informed decision making on an individual basis for dancers seeking higher level skills. Takeaways: Tricks should not be prioritized over great dancing.Dancers face a high risk of injury if trained improperly.Not all dancers can achieve the same skills; individual differences matter.Collegiate dance teams require acro skills, but not all dancers need them.The dance education system lacks regulation and oversight.Continuing education for dance instructors is crucial for dancer safety.Dancers and parents should consider their long-term goals and training needs when deciding whether to pursue higher level skills.Follow Jason on Instagram and TikTok: @heyitspickett   Follow Jason's Podcast, No Starving Artists: (Instagram: @nsaclips) Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  [email protected] Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com Leave us a review on Apple podcasts. Tell your friends about us!!!

Send us Fan Mail Hosted by: Tara Christensen PT, MS, DPT Guests: Mark Scheitzbach In this episode:  I chat with Mark Scheitzbach, a dance dad with a very unique perspective!  Mark is the dad of two male professional dancers, both of which have had incredible roles dancing for major recording artists.   His son Michael just danced with Diana Ross on New Years Rockin’ Eve and has also recently  for Mariah Carey and Blackpink. His other son Kevin was a dancer on the Eras Tour and can be seen in the End of An Era documentary on Disney +. Its safe to say this dad knows a thing or two about the industry, and in this conversation he shares how his boys got to where they are and many pearls of wisdom and advice for dance parents looking to support their dancers’ journey to a professional career in commercial dance. He also shares a bit about his perspective as the parent of a dancer on the Eras tour, including his evolution from casual fan to full blown Swiftie scream singing beside Scott and Andrea Swift in the VIP tent. Whether you’re a dancer, dance parent, or a Swiftie, I think you’ll enjoy our chat and learn a little something. You can follow Mark on TikTok: @PapaFlowXS  or Instagram:  Follow Michael on TikTok: @_michaeltrey and Instagram: @_michaeltrey Follow Kevin on TikTok: @kevinxscheitzbach  and Instagram: @kevin_kid_xs Submit your questions or topic suggestions! This podcast is for you, let us know what you want to hear more about:  [email protected] Follow us on social media: Instagram: @drdancemompodcast YouTube: @Dr.DanceMomPodcast TikTok: @doctordancemom Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1aPGZP9TAo/?mibextid=wwXIfr If you’re looking for a dance medicine Physical Therapist in northern New Jersey, check out my practice!  Performers Edge Wellness is located in Sparta, NJ and serves artistic athletes such as dancers, cheerleaders and gymnasts as well as active individuals looking to eliminate pain and sustain an active lifestyle.  Follow:   Instagram: @performersedgewellness Facebook: Performers Edge Wellness TikTok: @performersedgewellness Subscribe to our newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/performersedgewellness/socials-and-quick-sign-up To explore other services we provide, check out our website at www.performersedgewellness.com Leave us a review on Apple podcasts. Tell your friends about us!!!