My name is Karen Palmer and I am a dance scientist, strength and conditioning coach and researcher. I currently work with and train teachers in grass roots dance schools to help disseminate Dance Science principles, particularly supplementary training techniques, to maximise their young performers potential.
I hold a BA (Hons) Dance Education from the Royal Academy of Dance and an MSc Dance Science from Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. Prior to studying at the RAD, I performed in Italy and Germany before focussing on teaching young dancers in Ballet, Modern and Tap. Before undertaking my Masters at Trinity Laban, I was involved in and ran community and charity dance events. Throughout my time at Trinity Laban, I discovered an interest in academic research which I am keen to pursue and am soon to submit a study for publication on the benefits of passive heat source as an alternative for a warm-up.
I am passionate about supporting parents in the industry and through this I am currently on the Research Advisory Board of Dance Mama. I also have an interest in helping dancers work through the menopause transition in order to lengthen their careers, which led to completing a menopause training course. This training, coupled with the fact that I am also perimenopausal, puts me in a great position to train women who are in this new phase of their life as I can empathise with the highs and lows it brings. These group training sessions have been set up to support women and share knowledge for this next chapter in their life.
