10 Jun Keeping Budding Ballet Stars on Their Toes
How New Research is Helping Dancers Stay Injury-Free
For many young dancers, ballet is more than a hobby—it’s a lifelong dream in the making. But behind the graceful leaps and pirouettes lies a physically demanding discipline that can take a serious toll on the body, especially for teens in full-time training.
Now, an international study led by La Trobe University, in partnership with The Australian Ballet and elite researchers from Canada, is aiming to keep these young dancers healthier, stronger, and dancing longer.
Helping dancers reach the stage—and stay there
Eighteen-year-old Lottie knows how much injury can affect not just a dancer’s body, but their mind too. As a final-year student at The Australian Ballet School (ABS), she’s experienced the emotional and physical challenges of injury firsthand.
“Getting injured doesn’t just stop you from dancing—it knocks your confidence and affects your mental wellbeing,” Lottie says. “Recovery takes strength, patience and the right support.”
Lottie is now taking part in a ground-breaking injury surveillance study that aims to reduce the risk of injury among adolescent ballet dancers. It’s part of a global project called SHRed Injuries Surveillance—already running in Canada—that is now being rolled out in Melbourne through a partnership between La Trobe University’s Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre, The Australian Ballet School, and international experts.
Why this research matters to parents
For parents watching from the wings, seeing a child sidelined with an injury can be heartbreaking. Injuries can interrupt years of training and delay opportunities at a crucial time in a dancer’s development.
The new research will help shape injury prevention programs tailored to the specific needs of young ballet dancers. Associate Professor Ebonie Rio, lead researcher on the project, says the goal is to keep dancers in peak condition—physically and mentally.
“Ballet is beautiful but incredibly tough on the body. We want to give young dancers the best chance to enjoy a long and healthy career, whether that’s on the international stage or in recreational dance,” says Associate Professor Rio.
Healthy dancers, thriving careers
With 86 full-time students, The Australian Ballet School is a world-class training ground. Within months of graduating, nearly 90% of students secure contracts with top dance companies in Australia and around the world.
Megan Connelly, Artistic Director & Head of School, says protecting student health is essential.
“Our students are the future of ballet,” she says. “We’re proud to collaborate with La Trobe University to make sure our training is backed by the latest science and best practices in dancer health.”
Injury prevention starts with awareness
Fellow ABS student Tom, also 18, spent years managing a persistent ankle issue. Thanks to dedicated rehabilitation and sports research, he’s finally pain-free and back doing what he loves.
“I don’t think people realise how much injury affects every part of your performance—physically and mentally,” Tom says. “Recovery programs helped me track progress and gave me the tools I needed to heal properly.”
Both Lottie and Tom agree that preventing injury is far better than treating it. They follow strict routines involving strength training, adequate rest, proper nutrition and hydration, and early intervention at the first sign of strain.
For parents of aspiring dancers
If your child is passionate about ballet, supporting their health is just as important as encouraging their talent. Staying informed about injury prevention, recovery strategies and the importance of mental resilience can make all the difference in a young dancer’s journey.
The collaboration between La Trobe University, The Australian Ballet and leading international researchers is a major step forward—not just for elite dancers, but for dance schools and families everywhere.
Because behind every strong performance is a strong body—and the right support to keep it moving.
