by Amy Brandt | Dec 14, 2015 | Ask Amy, Health & Body
This story originally appeared in the December 2015/January 2016 issue of Pointe. I recently pulled a muscle in my hamstring, which has negatively affected my flexibility. Are there safe stretches to work through a pulled muscle? —Megan A pulled hamstring—tears that...
by Amy Brandt | Dec 14, 2015 | Ask Amy
How do you become someone who writes about dance, either for a newspaper or a magazine? Do you need a specific degree?—Arianna Take it from me—writing is a fantastic way to deepen your understanding and connection to the dance world! And, like any other field, it...
by Amy Brandt | Dec 14, 2015 | Ask Amy, Health & Body, Nutrition
What kinds of foods should I eat for sustained energy? I don’t want to be weighed down, but I can’t dance when I’m hungry, either. — Cecilia It’s a tricky balance: Dancing while hungry can cause you to grow light-headed and become easily...
by Amy Brandt | Oct 7, 2015 | Ask Amy, Health & Body, Wellness
This story originally appeared in the October/November 2015 issue of Pointe. What are compression sleeves or socks and why do dancers wear them? Do they have health benefits? —Cate Compression garments provide light pressure to the leg and foot muscles during...
by Amy Brandt | Oct 1, 2015 | Ask Amy, Wellness
This story originally appeared in the October/November 2015 issue of Pointe. I’m recovering from surgery on my ankle, and I’m feeling intimidated about getting back into the studio. How do I get over feeling like I’m starting at square one?...
by Amy Brandt | Sep 30, 2015 | Ask Amy, Career, Cross-Training
This story originally appeared in the October/November 2015 issue of Pointe. I’m preparing to dance my first lead and I’m worried about my stamina. Do you have any tips for keeping your energy up during a taxing role? —Kennedy Building stamina is a gradual...
by Amy Brandt | Sep 16, 2015 | Ask Amy, Technique
This story originally appeared in the August/September 2015 issue of Pointe. I’m flexible and good at traveling across the floor, but I can’t seem to get any height or extension on my sauts de chat. What should I focus on to get that powerful grand allégro...
by Amy Brandt | Aug 31, 2015 | Ask Amy, Cross-Training
This story originally appeared in the August/September 2015 issue of Pointe. Is working out in a pool a good way to cross-train? If so, can you describe some of the strengthening exercises that dancers can do in the water? —Karen If you’re looking for a...