Episode 89: Exploring the Science of Dance with Sarah Kenny

Written By Lex Lancaster

In this episode I'm thrilled to be joined by friend and colleague Sarah Kenny. We discuss her journey and career transition from a professional dancer to her current role in academia, as a professor at The University of Calgary in the combined Bachelor of Kinesiology / Bachelor of Arts (Dance) undergraduate degree program. We learn about Sarah's current research interests, and how these have shifted throughout the years as the field of dance science has evolved. Sarah also shares her insight and advice for dancers who might be interested in the more academic and research side of the dance world.

About Sarah

Sarah J. Kenny, PhD is an Associate Professor in the Faculties of Kinesiology and Arts at the University of Calgary in Canada where she leads a combined Bachelor of Kinesiology / Bachelor of Arts (Dance) undergraduate degree program. As a dance science researcher, Dr. Kenny investigates areas described as: ‘health for dance’ and ‘dance for health’. 

Specifically, Dr. Kenny’s research applies her experience as a contemporary dance artist to the science of injury epidemiology and focuses on reducing the burden of injuries across all dance populations. In addition, Dr. Kenny explores the psychosocial experience of community dance as a form of creative physical activity across the age spectrum. 

Currently, Dr. Kenny serves as President for Healthy Dancer Canada, the Dance Health Alliance of Canada and as an Associate Editor for the Journal of Dance Medicine and Science. She is also a registered provider of the Safe in Dance International certificates.

Connect with Sarah:
University of Calgary Dance/Kinesiology program

Email Sarah: kennys@ucalgary.ca

Learn more about Erika Mayall:

Lex Lancaster https://lexlancaster.com
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Episode 88: Your Questions, Answered - Part 2