In today’s competitive dance world, it’s no longer enough to teach steps and sequences. To stand out—and truly serve your students—you need to build dancers who are technically skilled, artistically expressive, and resilient enough to sustain long careers. That’s exactly what RPM Dance empowers you to do.
At RPM, we believe dancer health and injury prevention are not optional—they’re essential. Our teacher training isn’t just another syllabus. It’s a deep dive into the hidden principles that make great dancers great. Through a blend of anatomy, kinesiology, and proven movement techniques, you’ll learn how to teach dance safely, effectively, and with a scientific understanding that sets you apart.
Prioritize Safety: Learn how to prevent injuries while advancing technique.
Master the “Why”: Understand the biomechanics behind every movement, not just how it looks.
Tailor to Every Body: Adapt training methods to each student’s unique structure and pace.
Stay Ahead of the Curve: Blend classical tradition with modern, science-backed practices.
Gain Confidence: Walk into the studio knowing you’re giving students the best possible foundation.
RPM’s story begins with the groundbreaking work of Ruth Petrinović—known to many simply as “Mrs. P.” A visionary educator, Ruth combined deep knowledge of anatomy and movement with an unwavering commitment to dancer health and excellence. Her pioneering research laid the foundation for what we now call RPM Dance.
From Rio de Janeiro to Richmond Ballet: Ruth’s journey took her from early Vaganova training in Brazil to leadership roles at some of America’s most respected ballet institutions.
Revolutionary Teaching: Inspired by Jo Anna Kneeland’s innovative studies, Ruth developed a teaching approach that combined classical ballet with modern anatomical understanding.
Lasting Impact: Many of Ruth’s students have gone on to perform with prestigious companies worldwide. But perhaps her greatest legacy is the teachers she inspired—educators dedicated to nurturing not just dancers, but strong, healthy, and joyful individuals.
RPM Dance continues to honor Ruth’s legacy in every class, every student, and every step we take.
Cheryl has spent 35 years as a professional dancer, choreographer, actress, teacher, and businesswoman. She performed with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, in Equity musicals, and in classical ballets worldwide. A lifelong student of RPM Master Pedagogue Ruth Petrinović, Cheryl leads with deep experience. She helps teachers build strong bonds with students and schools through these principles. Cheryl lives in Monkton, MD, and is the author of The Spark.
Amy Lowe is an award-winning dance educator and choreographer known for her mastery of both classical and contemporary dance. With a B.S. in Sports Medicine, certifications from American Ballet Theatre and ISTD London, and experience across multiple companies, she has staged, choreographed, and restaged full-length ballets, guiding students to success at national and international levels. For the last 30 years, she has integrated RPM’s principles into her teaching, ensuring her students receive the safest, most effective training.
Join RPM Dance and become part of a movement that’s redefining dance education. Give your students the gift of safe, sustainable, and exceptional training—and position yourself as a leader in the field.