PLEASE NOTE: This is the presentation only version free to ACSM National Members . The full course (1.0 CEC) can be accessed by members and non-members here: Culture, REDs & Dancers | American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).
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In this "From Around the Field" course, Karen Sheriff, will explore how cultural norms within the performing arts, particularly in classical ballet, shape the risk and presentation of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs). Drawing from both clinical evidence and lived experience, including her leadership within the Royal Ballet School, the presenter will highlight how REDs often goes undetected in dancers due to normalized dysfunction, aesthetic ideals, and the absence of structured training systems.
The course will examine high training loads, lack of periodization, and missed opportunities for strength integration- set against a cultural backdrop that has historically rewarded stoicism over sustainability. Attendees will gain insight into the systemic changes needed to better protect the health, performance, and future of performing artists.
