Join host Loren Dermody and special guest Sarah Reis on the latest episode for a deep dive into thoracic mobility and spine articulation. Sarah breaks down the key anatomy behind common bridge issues and how to improve your technique with targeted exercises. From unlocking tight hip flexors to understanding the fascial system, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help your dancers.

Don't miss out—this bite-size anatomy lesson is one you'll want to add to your teaching toolbox. Tune in NOW for expert insights and practical strategies.

About Sarah Reis

In her early development Sarah split her time between gymnastics and dance then later got into circus work and competitive rock climbing. The combination of these skills led her to a performance career as a stunt double in the thriving Vancouver film scene. While enjoying a professional performance career she worked on various projects including cruiseship contracts, print, television, film and nightlife productions. Sarah has always felt it was important to continue her education and graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology in 2006. After graduation Sarah started work as an artistic sport rehabilitation specialist in a Physiotherapy clinic during the day while teaching dance in the evening. At the clinic Sarah primarily designed return to training programs for injured artistic athletes.

Sarah is a certified teacher in acrobatics through the Canadian Dance Teachers Association (CDTA) and is a level three coach in women's artistic gymnastics with the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP). Sarah holds longstanding certificates with many established dance teacher, Pilates and fitness related organizations. Sarah eventually returned to school to study contemporary dance at Simon Fraser University and completed a second degree in Education. Sarah spent some time working in the school district, holding an official teaching license with the BC ministry of Education in the specialty of performing arts and physical education. In 2008 she completed her Master's degree in Human Performance Coaching Sciences from the University of Victoria where she researched in the field of athletic motor development and later developed the curriculum for the International Dance Teaching Standards teacher education program for developing dance educators. Sarah began her doctorate research in Leadership Education but has since switched her focus to Dance Medicine. Within her research Sarah is interested in AcroDance teaching methodology and recently presented at the International Association of Dance Medicine and Science.

When not touring as a public speaker, Sarah is the director of a large dance competition and manages a physiotherapy clinic among other small businesses. Sarah has spent the last decade touring worldwide presenting at various universities, dance conventions and conferences and can also be seen live from Los Angeles with CLI Studios. With a strong creative pull Sarah has been choreographing AcroDance lines and productions for more than twenty years and continues to be passionate about student development when she is home and able to teach in her hometown. Module three certified, Sarah is an examiner and course conductor here at Acrobatic Arts.

www.danceteachingstandards.com

Listen to Sarah's previous episodes:

Ep. 12 Tips for Cartwheel Rebounds and Roundoff - Sarah Calvert

Ep. 42 Mats for AcroDance Training with Sarah Reis

Ep. 53 Life Lessons in Dance with Sarah Reis

Ep. 54 Life Lessons in Dance with Sarah Reis, Pt 2

Ep. 98 Balancing Competition and Education in Dance with Sarah Reis

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

Dive into the explosive world of dance with Loren Dermody and Derek Piquette as they unpack the groundbreaking Prodigy Dance Convention and the rising importance of acro in performance. From viral University of Minnesota routines to insights from UDA Nationals, this episode reveals why dance teams are transforming the performing arts landscape. Get the inside scoop on the upcoming Accelerate Acro Convention and discover how acro skills are revolutionizing dance, commercials, and professional performances. Tune in for an electrifying journey through the future of movement!

About Derek Piquette

Derek Piquette, a multifaceted artist from Chicopee, MA, began his dance journey at 10.

A principal dancer in Carmen and The Maid, he gained recognition on Season 12 of So You Think You Can Dance, finishing top 4 and touring.

Derek founded Intrepid Dance Company in 2017, directing and choreographing its debut, "HER."

Starring as the "Trickster" in Cirque Du Soleil's KOOZA, Derek also reached the finals on NBC's World Of Dance Season 3.

As a teacher and choreographer, Derek contributed to renowned organizations like CLI Studios and judged competitions.

Choreographing 350+ award-winning pieces since 2014, he left a mark on Dance Moms, Disney Channel's Backstage, and So You Think You Can Dance.

Derek's passion extends to mentoring young dancers globally, leaving a lasting impact through his exceptional teaching approach and inspiring them to excel in dance.

Follow Derek on IG: https://www.instagram.com/derekpiquette/

Prodigy Dance Convention: https://www.prodigydanceconvention.com/

Accelerate Acro Convention: https://accelerateacroconvention.com/

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

This is THE podcast episode you can't miss! Acrobatic Arts Founder Mandy Yip is dropping game-changing insights that will transform how you approach AcroDance education in 2025. From explosive industry trends to insider strategies that could skyrocket your career, this conversation is packed with must-know information. Want to stay ahead of the curve and unlock opportunities others are missing? Tune in now and get ready to level up your acro game!

Mandy Yip, Acrobatic Arts Founder
With over 350,000 dancers participating in Acrobatic Arts classes every week, Mandy Yip manages the delivery of training programs and the Acrobatic Arts syllabus in over 65hundred dance studios around the world. She also created the most comprehensive and researched Acrobatic Arts Curriculum, as well as innovative apps such as the AcroDance Resource Center. Mandy is a highly sought-after industry expert, known for her engaging workshops and clinics across North America, Europe, and Australia.

Prodigy Dance Convention: https://www.prodigydanceconvention.com/

Accelerate Acro Convention: https://accelerateacroconvention.com/

If you'd like more amazing content more tips and ideas check out our Acrobatic Arts Channel on YouTube. Subscribe Now!

Connect with Acrobatic Arts on your favourite social media platform:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acrobaticarts/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Acroarts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/acrobatic_arts/

Learn more and register for our programs at AcrobaticArts.com

Acrobatic Arts: https://www.acrobaticarts.com