Thomas Swords, a La Trobe PhD student, is working behind the scenes with The Australian Ballet to support the health and performance of more than 70 dancers.
Since 2015, La Trobe researchers have partnered with The Australian Ballet to explore injury prevention and support the wellbeing of its dancers. The Australian Ballet is one of the only ballet companies in the world with an embedded research department focused on the artistic performers’ health.
Thomas was awarded a La Trobe PhD scholarship following his Honours research, which used wearable technologies to measure physical load and force on dancers’ bodies, helping reduce injury and improve recovery.
Having danced from the age of five to 28, Thomas understands the physical demands of dance training and the pressure to perform, even through injury.
“There is that mentality that you just push through and you get on stage and you do those things, and then you limp off stage after…That culture is changing now, which is really great.”
Initially drawn to physiotherapy, Thomas found himself captivated by the science behind movement and performance. In late 2025, he’ll begin a new PhD project with the Victorian Institute of Sport.
Opportunities for students
La Trobe’s partnership with The Australian Ballet gives students the chance to gain real-world experience.
You could take part in student placements, work alongside elite ballet performers and get a behind-the-scenes look at how spectacular productions come together
La Trobe and The Australian Ballet’s collaboration capitalises on La Trobe’s research strengths and The Australian Ballet’s world-renowned injury prevention and rehabilitation teams.
Read Preserving cultural heritage – Emily’s placement with The Australian Ballet.