Dancer Wellness Series, Part 1: Upper Extremities Strengthening for Floorwork

This session will explore the importance of shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand stability in supporting safe and efficient floorwork. It will highlight common upper extremity injuries in dancers and strategies for prevention, while examining how mobility, strength, and control work together during weight-bearing through the arms. 

Participants will gain practical tools to build upper body strength and stability for floor-based movement, improve weight transfer mechanics, and integrate targeted exercises into warm-ups and conditioning routines to enhance performance and reduce injury risk. 

Presenter: Natalie Ziemba, MSOT, OTR/L received her Master of
Science in Occupational Therapy from Columbia University, where she gained
valuable experience treating various psychological, neurological, and
orthopedic conditions. Natalie received her Bachelor of Arts in Public Health
Studies from Elon University. Natalie trained in ballet, contemporary, jazz,
hip hop, and pom styles throughout her time as a competitive studio dancer and
as a member of Elon University’s dance team. With a background in dance, she
developed a strong foundation in movement and body awareness, sparking
her interest in upper extremity rehabilitation. Natalie is passionate about
helping individuals regain independence and improve their quality of
life. 

This workshop is available to anyone living in the United States, Puerto Rico and US territories.