Marie Walton-Mahon

Founder of PBT

Dedicated to the art of ballet and passionate about dancer well-being, Marie Walton-Mahon's journey began with a vision to revolutionize ballet training. As the founder of Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT), her innovative approach has transformed the way dancers understand and develop their technique, focusing on core strength, muscle memory, and injury prevention.

Discover the PBT Advantage

Unlock your full potential as a dancer with Progressing Ballet Technique. Explore the core principles, benefits, and impact of PBT on dancers of all levels. Contact us to learn more about Marie Walton-Mahon's groundbreaking method and how it can enhance your training.

What inspired Marie Walton-Mahon to found the Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT)?

Driven by a desire to address the common challenges and injuries faced by ballet dancers, Marie Walton-Mahon sought to create a training method that would strengthen core stability, improve muscle memory, and enhance body awareness. Her inspiration stemmed from a deep understanding of anatomy, biomechanics, and the specific needs of dancers. This led her to develop the innovative PBT program, which utilizes exercise balls to teach dancers how to engage the correct muscles for optimal technique and injury prevention.

What are the core principles or techniques that define the PBT method?

PBT is defined by its focus on core stability, weight placement, and muscle activation. The technique employs the use of exercise balls to facilitate a deeper understanding of muscular engagement and proper alignment. Core principles include:

  1. Activating core muscles to support posture and prevent injury.
  2. Developing muscle memory through repetitive exercises.
  3. Improving balance and coordination using the exercise ball.
  4. Promoting body awareness and control.
  5. Enhancing turnout and flexibility safely.

How does PBT benefit dancers of different skill levels and styles?

PBT offers numerous benefits to dancers across all skill levels and styles. For beginners, it provides a solid foundation in core stability and alignment, promoting correct technique from the outset. Intermediate dancers can use PBT to refine their skills, correct imbalances, and enhance their overall performance. Advanced dancers can leverage PBT to prevent injuries, maintain peak condition, and extend their careers. Whether training in classical ballet, contemporary dance, or any other genre, PBT is a valuable tool for improving strength, flexibility, and body awareness.

Can you share a story or achievement that highlights Marie Walton-Mahon's impact on the dance world?

One notable story that underscores Marie Walton-Mahon's influence is the success of numerous PBT-trained dancers who have gone on to excel in prestigious ballet companies and dance institutions around the world. Her method has been credited with improving dancers' technique, reducing injury rates, and enhancing their overall artistry. Furthermore, Marie's dedication to sharing her knowledge has led to PBT becoming a globally recognized training program, with certified teachers in numerous countries. Her work has touched the lives of countless dancers, empowering them to achieve their full potential and enjoy long, fulfilling careers.