Watch DT+ Teacher Talk: “Exercises for Strong, Supple Feet” with Stacey Calvert
August 6, 2026
In this exclusive DT+ Teacher Talk, “Dance Teacher” editorial director Reanne Rodrigues joins Stacey Calvert, former NYCB soloist and artistic director at Ballet Academy East in NYC, to explore the anatomy of the foot, gain a deeper understanding of long-term foot health, and learn effective exercises to improve flexibility, stability, strength, and articulation. Dr. Louis Galli, foot and ankle consultant for the Radio City Rockettes and podiatric consultant to NYCB and SAB, also shares his expertise at the beginning of the conversation.
10 Teacher Takeaways
- Think beyond the foot
Because the foot is part of a larger kinetic chain, build strength and stability through the pelvis, glutes, back, core, and calves. - Prioritize alignment
Maintaining connection to the floor using all five toes lays the foundation for stronger footwork. - Don’t equate a beautiful arch with a strong foot
Flexibility can create an aesthetically desirable line, but dancers with highly flexible or hypermobile feet need additional strength and stability to support them. - Build strength slowly and deliberately
Think of it like building a house: establish a solid foundation before adding complexity. Don’t rush a dancer into the next progression simply because they can perform the movement. - Get the movement right before adding repetitions
Repeating an exercise incorrectly reinforces the wrong movement patterns. Establish quality and intention first, then add repetitions and coordination. - Make everyday exercises count
Tendus, pliés, relevés, jumps, landings, and single-leg work can all develop strength and control when taught with purpose. - Teach dancers to absorb impact
Jumping and landing are opportunities to develop foot strength, but dancers need to understand how to absorb shock through the feet, legs and whole body rather than relying on the shoe or collapsing into the landing. - Stretch and strengthen together
If dancers are stretching their feet, they also need to develop the strength to control that increased range. Flexibility without strength doesn’t provide the stability needed for dancing. - Individualize progression and pointe readiness
There isn’t one timeline that works for every dancer. Assess each student’s alignment, strength, foot/ankle control, and overall foundation rather than moving an entire class forward. - Teach dancers to listen to their bodies
Pain and other warning signs shouldn’t be ignored. Body awareness can help dancers limit injuries.
