In this episode of Dance Med Spotlight, we’re diving into practical, actionable strategies to enhance performance, resilience, and overall dancer health with Sarah Tyndall, PT, MPT, OCS. Whether you’re a dancer, parent, teacher, or studio owner, this conversation offers valuable insight on how to build strength, prevent injury, and support longevity in dance.

Our guest, Sarah Tyndall, PT, MPT, OCS, shares her insights as a former dancer turned physical therapist. With nearly 20 years of experience and a passion for foot care, she brings both expertise and empathy to the table.

Strength Training That Supports the Demands of Dance

Strength training is essential for dancers. It not only improves performance but also reduces injury risk by supporting joints during high-impact movement. Sarah explains how dancers can build strength in a way that complements their training. Plus, she offers simple, effective exercises that are easy to add to any routine.

Building Resilience Through Smart Lifestyle Choices

Success in dance doesn’t come from training alone. In fact, resilience often depends on how dancers manage their lives outside of class. Sarah discusses the importance of balancing dance with other activities, including rest, school, and social life. This balance is key to avoiding burnout and staying mentally healthy.

Why Foot Health Should Never Be Overlooked

Foot care is often an afterthought—but it shouldn’t be. Sarah dives into why dancers need to prioritize foot health and how doing so can impact overall performance. She shares tips for maintaining strong, pain-free feet and explains why sensory input from the feet plays a critical role in movement and stability.

Finding the Right Balance in Training Schedules

Many dancers are over-scheduled. While dedication is important, too much training without enough rest can lead to fatigue and injury. In this episode, you’ll hear how to create a more balanced schedule—one that includes dance, cross-training, and recovery. This approach can help dancers make consistent progress without sacrificing their well-being.

Creating a Supportive Studio Culture

For studio owners and teachers, Sarah offers advice on how to build a positive studio environment. A strong culture supports not just technique, but the whole dancer. When dancers feel supported, they’re more likely to stay healthy, motivated, and engaged.

Meet the Guest: Sarah Tyndall, PT, MPT, OCS

Sarah’s journey from Vaganova ballet dancer to orthopedic clinical specialist shapes her unique approach. Growing up without access to dance-specific care, she became determined to help the next generation. Today, she specializes in foot and ankle care and works with dancers of all ages.

“Feet are my jam,” Sarah says. “They’re misunderstood in modern medicine, but they’re key to how we move and feel.”

Connect with Sarah