Stride with Confidence: Mastering High Heels Without the Pain

Did you know that wearing heels is linked to back pain, joint strain, and posture misalignment—yet the right movement strategies can dramatically reduce these risks? This research-informed, one-day workshop at UCLA Downtown Campus is designed for adults 18+ years old and all levels, including dancers, actors, musicians, performers, athletes and anyone who wants to move with confidence and ease. Led by Dr. Stacy Barrows, Doctor of Physical Therapy, certified Feldenkrais® practitioner, Pilates Instructor, Inventor and Author, you’ll learn cutting-edge self-care tools to move without pain, heighten your balance to prevent falls, and improve posture to walk like a young person. Drawing on the Feldenkrais® Method, used in sports, geriatric care, creativity, and performing arts (taught at Berkeley School of Music for theatrical and musical performance) and endorsed by many support groups such as the Parkinson’s Society and Arthritis Society, you will learn ways to walk gracefully in heels while discovering easy self-help strategies walking, standing, or performing in heels. Walk away with a personalized “heel-smart” toolkit to move with ease, protect your spine, and own your presence—on stage, on set, or in everyday life. Required to bring: yoga mat, high heels, small towel.  Students must sign a waiver before participating.