about me

Carolyn Stoklosa
Physical Therapist and Lifelong Dancer

I use my expertise and evidence based practice to foster young dancers, help dancers of all ages and backgrounds recover from injury, and teach group classes for dancers to gain knowledge about biomechanics and related exercises they can do to enhance performance.

I created physiodancer as an accessible way to share my professional knowledge. I hope this website can help you on your journey to being a successful dancer.

my philosophy

We all have limitations as dancers. Some dancers have ideal flexibility, but are prone to injury. Other dancers are audience favorites but don’t have the best technique. Dancers all strive for perfection, but in reality, that is rare to achieve. The most successful dancers have learned to work with what they have, using their strengths to their advantage. The presentation a dancer makes as a whole is key to their success.

Some physical limitations we can work through and improve. One can do specific exercises to rise onto a high demi-pointe with good form and control. Other limitations are fixed. We cannot change the bony structure we were born with. Instead of fighting with our bodies, we need to be curious and develop ways to work with them.

If we respect, listen to, and care for our bodies, we will dance better, extend our dancing careers, and be happier, healthier people.

This site contains general recommendations for dance, and may not be appropriate for some individuals.  For those who have an injury or pain, a medical doctor or provider should be seen for a definitive diagnosis and general health screening before starting any exercise or training regimen. This may be followed by a physical therapy appointment (with a Licensed Physical Therapist) before starting any group classes or following any general recommendations for exercise.