June 9, 2026
Can Dance Help Menopause? | What the Research Says
<p>Can dance improve mental and physical health during menopause? In this episode, we explore a 2025 systematic review and meta-analysis examining the effects of dance interventions on perimenopausal, menopausal, and postmenopausal women.</p><p><br></p><p>Researchers analyzed multiple studies involving dance styles such as Zumba, jazz dance, traditional cultural dances, sports dance, and dance movement therapy. The results suggest that dance may significantly improve depression, anxiety, vitality, social functioning, quality of life, and several physical health outcomes.</p><p><br></p><p>We discuss the science behind these findings, potential mechanisms, practical takeaways, and important limitations of the research. Whether you're a dancer, healthcare professional, teacher, student, or simply interested in healthy aging, this episode highlights how movement and dance may support well-being throughout life.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Research publication: </strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13080881" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Liao, D., Mo, L., & Chen, M. (2025, April). The effectiveness of dance interventions on health-related outcomes in perimenopausal, menopausal, and postmenopausal women: a systematic review and Meta-analysis. In Healthcare (Vol. 13, No. 8, p. 881). MDPI.</a></li></ul><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://mailchi.mp/ballet/sign-up-for-ballet-science-e-mails" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>Join the Ballet Science E-mail List</strong></a></p><p><br></p><p><a href="https://youtu.be/0K64k88Vdlk" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>Watch This Video On YouTube</strong></a></p><p><br></p><p>Want to go deeper into the science of ballet? Subscribe to Ballet Science Backstage for bonus Ballet Science content including exclusive episodes, early access, and more. Your support helps keep evidence-based dance education accessible for dancers, teachers, and movement lovers everywhere.</p><ul><li><a href="https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/caroline-simpkins/subscribe" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>Subscribe on Spotify</strong></a></li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>Connect With Ballet Science:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://ballet.science" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Website</a></li><li><a href="https://instagram.com/ballet.science" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Instagram</a></li><li><a href="https://facebook.com/ballet.science" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Facebook </a></li><li><a href="https://x.com/ballet_science" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">X</a></li><li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/shop/ballet.science?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_TBKYSEDDVEAE0F6K7AJ8" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Amazon Storefront</a></li><li>E-mail: caroline@ballet.science</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Ballet Science is hosted by Caroline Simpkins, Ph.D., former professional ballerina and biomechanics researcher. The podcast explores injury prevention, biomechanics, nutrition, mindset, and the science behind dance performance.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Medical Disclaimer: This video is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Every individual's health situation is unique. If you are experiencing menopausal symptoms, please consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding treatment options. This discussion is not intended to discourage hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or other medical treatments. Rather, it explores current research on dance as a potential complementary, non-pharmacological strategy that may support health and well-being during the menopausal transition.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Filming Equipment Affiliate Links:</strong></p><ul><li><a href="https://amzn.to/494YG94" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Microphone</a></li><li><a href="https://amzn.to/4pHmvsx" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Pop Filter</a></li><li><a href="https://amzn.to/477wqAp" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Mic Stand</a></li><li><a href="https://amzn.to/47qALyP" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Prompter</a></li><li><a href="https://amzn.to/3KIEn7w" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Large Key Light</a></li><li><a href="https://amzn.to/3IJbCHg" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Small Key Light</a></li><li><a href="https://amzn.to/48ICDoT" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Eve Flare Light</a></li></ul><p><br></p><p>Logo photo: Richard Calmes</p>
