Ep. 113 - Hyperextended Legs in Ballet: What's Not Explained in Class... with Shane Wuerthner

If you have hyperextended knees, you've probably spent a lot of time in class feeling like your body is working against you. You get corrections like "straighten your legs" and no matter how hard you try, nothing seems to change. Closing in fifth without bending your knees feels impossible, your standing leg feels unstable, and nobody has ever actually explained why.

In this episode, I'm joined by Shane Wuerthner, a former professional ballet dancer, who is now a ballet coach and the founder of Athletistry. And as someone with significant hypermobility in his own knees, Shane is not just talking theory here... He's lived it!

We cover:

• What's actually happening in your body when you have hypermobile knees
• The proprioception piece, and why you might not be able to feel when your leg is actually straight
• Closing in fifth position: what's realistic, what's not, and how to find your version of it
• Stability in your standing leg and what your foot connection has to do with it
• Why cues like "pull up" and "engage your quads" often don't translate for hypermobile dancers
• How to work with your hypermobility and maintain a healthy mindset!

If you've ever felt frustrated or discouraged by your hypermobility, this episode is for you.

CONNECT WITH SHANE👇🏼
Instagram: @athletistry
YouTube: @athletistryofficial
Website: www.athletistry.au
Workshops: www.athletistry.au/workshops

EPISODE SPONSOR ✨
ORZA - Ballet Slippers
Designed by a professional dancer, ORZA slippers feature patented shock-absorbing technology to help reduce fatigue, improve stamina, and prevent injuries. Shop at orzabrand.com | Use code AFTERCLASS5 for $5 off your order!

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Podcast produced by Mission Bridge Media.
www.MissionBridgeMedia.com