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does strength training make dancers bulky? (spoiler: no—but underfueling could be your downfall)
“Bulky” is the word many dancers use when they worry their lines will change—or that muscle gain will outpace what reads well onstage. I...

Melissa
Oct 213 min read


performance recovery starts before the curtain falls
Performance recovery for dancers starts before the curtain falls. Learn simple nutrition, hydration, and rest habits to keep you strong all weekend.

Melissa
Oct 152 min read


aesthetics vs. health: what matters more in dance?
Aesthetics are subjective. Health is essential. Here’s why fueling, recovery, and strength—not appearance—create the stamina, artistry, and consistency directors count on.

Melissa
Oct 24 min read


body checking for dancers: what it is and what to do instead
You catch your reflection between combinations and do a quick scan: lines, waist, quads. Later, you zoom in on a rehearsal photo to check your arm shape. Maybe you pinch, adjust, or try on an old costume “just to see.”
If any of that sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you’re not doing anything “wrong.” You’re likely body checking.

Melissa
Sep 224 min read


the truth about 'what I eat in a day' videos for dancers
“What I Eat in a Day” videos are everywhere right now — from influencers to professional ballet dancers. They’re easy to click on, and I’ll admit, I’ve watched my share, too.

Melissa
Sep 43 min read


how to support your teen dancer’s food choices without creating tension
Imagine this: your teen dancer comes home after a long day of school and rehearsal, grabs a slice of cake, and sits down at the table. Before you can stop yourself, you say—“Shouldn’t you have something healthier?”

Melissa
Aug 204 min read


why a perfect meal plan doesn't exist (especially) for dancers
The power of flexibility, sustainability, and realistic fueling.
When dancers come to me for nutrition support, one of the first things they ask is:
“Can you just tell me exactly what to eat?”

Melissa
Jul 162 min read


letting go of sugar guilt
If there’s one nutrient that gets dancers spinning in circles (and not the good kind), it’s sugar. Somewhere along the way, sugar got...

Melissa
Jul 13 min read


hydration for performance: why dancers need salt
You’re drinking water—but still cramping, dragging mid-rehearsal, or feeling foggy?
Let’s fix that.

Melissa
Jun 162 min read


let's talk about sugar
What dancers need to know about sugar, energy, and fueling smartly—not fearfully.

Melissa
Jun 143 min read


beyond the headlines: why dancers deserve more than a 'plus size future'
Ballet’s future isn’t tied to one body type. Discover why true body diversity, fueling, and support—not size alone—are key to dancer longevity and artistry.

Melissa
Apr 294 min read


protein: a dancer's reality check
Learn how much protein dancers actually need to support strength, recovery, and energy—without crowding out other nutrients essential for performance.

Melissa
Apr 153 min read


an open letter to dance teachers: what will your students remember?
A letter to dance educators about the impact of their words on dancers’ body image, fueling habits, and long-term confidence—plus how to break the cycle.

Melissa
Apr 143 min read


3 signs you're not eating enough for your schedule
Constantly sore, tired, or distracted in class? These 3 signs may mean you're not eating enough to support your training—and here's how to f

Melissa
Mar 212 min read


why I say 'balance' instead of 'moderation'
If you've followed my content for a while, you’ve probably noticed that I use the word balance when talking about dancer nutrition—but...

Melissa
Mar 74 min read


nutrition advice red flags 🚩
Not all nutrition advice is good advice. Learn how to spot red flags in nutrition advice so you can fuel smarter as a dancer—without the con

Melissa
Mar 43 min read


dancers, bloating is normal... but when should you worry?
Bloating is common in dancers, but when should you be concerned? Learn why it happens, when to investigate, and how to manage bloating witho

Melissa
Mar 43 min read


supplements for dancers - the hard truths
Are supplements really necessary for dancers? Before spending money on powders and pills, learn the hard truths about supplements, when they

Melissa
Feb 123 min read


performance nutrition: a MUST for dance education
Discover why nutrition and anatomy education is essential for dancers. Learn how dance studios can empower young dancers with the knowledge

Melissa
Jan 134 min read


understanding low energy availability (LEA): a guide for dancers and athletes
Learn about Low Energy Availability (LEA) and how it impacts dancers and athletes. Discover actionable tips for energy balance, performance

Melissa
Jan 24 min read
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