Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nicole Taylor. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Nicole thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What’s the kindest thing anyone has ever done for you?
The kindest thing anyone has ever done for me was believing in me when I didn’t believe in myself. My Fiance saw my passion for dance medicine and my vision for something bigger—before I even fully saw it myself. I was hesitant to take the leap and start my own practice, doubting whether I could make it work. But he never wavered. He reminded me of my expertise, my dedication to my patients, and the impact I could have if I built something of my own.
With his encouragement, I took the risk, and now I have a thriving dance physical therapy business that serves the exact community I’ve always wanted to help. Looking back, I can’t imagine not doing this—but I also know that without his belief in me, I might not have taken that first step. That kind of unwavering support is something I’ll always be grateful for.
Nicole, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I’m Dr. Nicole Taylor , a licensed dance medicine physical therapist and the owner of a Impact Dance PT located in San Diego, CA. My business is dedicated to helping dancers, ice skaters, gymnasts, and artistic athletes prevent injuries, recover efficiently, and optimize their movement so they can continue doing what they love at the highest level.
How I Got Into This Industry
My journey into dance medicine started with my own background as a competitive dancer. I understand firsthand the physical demands and unique challenges dancers face, from overuse injuries to the pressure of pushing through pain for performances. That personal experience, combined with my deep passion for anatomy and movement science, led me to pursue a career in physical therapy. However, I quickly realized that most traditional PT clinics weren’t equipped to address the specific needs of artistic athletes.
That’s why I decided to create something different—a space where dancers and artistic athletes feel truly understood, where their rehab isn’t just about getting back to daily life but about returning to peak performance.
What I Offer & The Problems I Solve
My clinic is a combination of a physical therapy clinic, dance studio, and gym, designed to bridge the gap between rehab and performance. I provide:
-Injury rehabilitation -Helping dancers recover safely while maintaining strength and technique
– Injury prevention & movement assessments – Identifying weaknesses and imbalances before they turn into major issues
-Performance optimization – Working with dancers to improve mobility, strength, and technique to enhance their artistry and longevity in their careers
– Return-to-dance programs – Guiding dancers through the crucial transition from rehab back to full training and performances
One of the biggest problems I solve is helping dancers avoid the cycle of chronic injuries that so many struggle with. Instead of just treating pain and sending them back to dance, I focus on identifying the root causes of their issues, whether it’s improper loading, muscle imbalances, or inefficient movement patterns. I also educate dancers on how to take care of their bodies proactively, so they can have longer, healthier careers.
What Sets Me Apart
I bring a deep understanding of dance biomechanics that most general PTs simply don’t have. I know the demands of turnout, pointe work, jumps, and extensions—not just from textbooks but from personal experience and years of working exclusively with artistic athletes. My clinic isn’t just a medical space; it’s a performance-driven environment that feels familiar and welcoming to dancers.
What I’m Most Proud Of
I’m incredibly proud of the community I’ve built—a space where dancers feel heard, supported, and empowered. Seeing my patients return to the stage stronger than before, feeling more in control of their bodies, is the most rewarding part of what I do.
What I Want Potential Clients to Know
If you’re a dancer struggling with an injury, feeling stuck in your training, or just wanting to take better care of your body, I’m here to help. My approach goes beyond basic rehab—I want to teach you how to train smarter, recover efficiently, and build a body that supports your artistry for years to come.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
Other than training and knowledge, I believe genuine connection and trust with patients is one of the most crucial factors for success in my field. As a dance medicine physical therapist, I work with artistic athletes who are deeply passionate about their craft, and injuries can be physically and emotionally devastating for them. If they don’t feel heard, understood, or supported, even the best treatment plan won’t be as effective.
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
The most effective strategy for growing our PT clinic has been building a strong reputation within the dance community through word-of-mouth referrals, social media, and direct connections with dance studios and coaches. At the end of the day, the best marketing isn’t about selling a service; it’s about being a trusted resource, providing real value, and fostering a community where dancers feel supported. That kind of connection will always be more powerful than any ad campaign money can buy.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @Impact_DancePT
