by Amy Brandt | Oct 9, 2018 | Ask Amy, Health & Body
I have very hyperextended legs, and when I do sauts de chat my teachers say my back leg looks bent, even if I try my hardest and think it’s straight. Why is this happening, and do you have any tips? —Eden I have hyperextended knees too, so I understand how they...
by Amy Brandt | Sep 12, 2018 | Ask Amy, Training
I’ve noticed that my progress has plateaued. Class starts out pretty well, but once we get to center, it seems like I am not improving whatsoever. Help! —Sade You’re not alone; all dancers experience a plateau at some point. Chances are you are...
by Amy Brandt | Jun 27, 2018 | Ask Amy, Summer Study, Training
I’m a young dancer, and I’ve been accepted to a prestigious summer program. I know intensives are a good way to get my name known in the dance world. How do I give a good impression without seeming nervous? —Lydia Relax! It sounds like you still have...
by Amy Brandt | May 23, 2018 | Ask Amy, Training
I’m 15 and want to be a professional ballet dancer. I have ballet five times a week, contemporary once a week and rehearsals year-round. It is 15 to 20 hours a week. When I hear about dancers doing 30-plus hours a week, I worry that I dance too little. Is my...
by Amy Brandt | May 9, 2018 | Ask Amy, Health & Body, Wellness
How frequent is too frequent for ballet injuries? I’m a college ballet major with a rigorous schedule. Within the past year, I’ve had two sprained ankles, surgery for a labral tear in my hip and now possibly a stress fracture in my metatarsal. I...
by Amy Brandt | Apr 18, 2018 | Ask Amy
I was offered a company contract (my first!) starting this fall. What should I do in the meantime to make sure I’m as prepared as possible? —Melissa Congratulations! You are about to enter an exciting new world—and you’re smart to want to be prepared....
by Amy Brandt | Mar 28, 2018 | Ask Amy, Training
I don’t have full 180-degree turnout, so I can’t make the same beautiful lines that other dancers can. Even if I strengthen my body enough to utilize my full range of motion, will anyone ever hire me? —Carmen Let’s face it—very few...
by Amy Brandt | Jan 17, 2018 | Ask Amy, Training
I want to be a professional dancer, but my parents won’t listen. They either don’t think I can do it (contrary to what my teachers have said) or they won’t let me take the necessary steps to become a professional. Please help. —Audrey I remember...