For Misty Copeland, the word "perfection" is always top of mind.
But the ballerina, who was the first Black woman to serve as a principal dancer at the renowned American Ballet Theatre, took her final bow with the company in October 2025. Her one-word theme for the year ahead is "precision." She's prioritizing consistency in her health and wellness journey, and listening to her mind and body rather than striving for perfection.
Copeland is partnering with Nature Made, an American dietary supplement and vitamin brand, and spoke on a panel for the company Jan. 22. Before the event, USA TODAY sat down with the dancer to talk motherhood, wellness regimens and why she needed hip replacement surgery following her farewell performance.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Question: Ballet is a sport known for being tough on the body. How has your relationship to wellness and how you take care of yourself been changing since your retirement last fall?
