Is Ballet ACTUALLY Healthy? The Science, Benefits & Hidden Risks

Ballet is synonymous with grace, elegance, and extreme discipline... but what does classical ballet training actually do for your physical and mental health?

In this Ballet Science video, host Dr. Caroline Simpkins (former professional ballerina with a Ph.D. in biomechanics) takes an evidence-based look at ballet as a form of physical activity and tackles the big question: Is ballet healthy?

We move beyond treating ballet as either inherently beneficial or damaging. Discover the science behind how ballet challenges balance, postural control, muscular endurance, and active mobility... and why attending class alone may not satisfy all your cardiovascular or progressive strength needs.

We also examine critical risks: low energy availability (REDs), skeletal loading vs. bone turnover, common overuse injuries, and training culture pressures, concluding with actionable, science-backed strategies to help dancers train sustainably.