Misty Copeland's wellness and fitness favorites
Sports bra: Greatness Wins Square-Neck Essential Bra
Sneakers: Nike Free RN By You Sneakers
Portable Speaker: JBL Clip 4 Portable Mini Speaker
Maintaining a fitness routine is still a priority for ballerina Misty Copeland, but these days, the mom of one has been taking a different approach to her workouts. “Exercise has always been a nonnegotiable for me, but at 41 years old and having had a career that has been very tough on my body, my daily routine has become much lower impact and intentional,” Copeland tells CNN Underscored, adding that her “gentle on the joints” workouts include a mix of strength training, Pilates, stretching and light cardio.
For Copeland, practicing self-care extends beyond just taking care of the physical. “Self-care is about nourishing both the body and the mind,” she says. “For me, it’s a holistic approach that includes physical well-being, mental health and emotional balance. I prioritize time for rest and recovery, ensuring I’m mentally and physically prepared for everything I take on, whether it’s performing onstage or being present as a mother. Wellness is an ongoing journey, and I make it a point to listen to what my body and mind need at any given moment.”
In 2015, Copeland made history as the first Black ballerina to be appointed a principal dancer at the American Ballet Theater, appearing on the cover of Time Magazine that same year. Since then, she’s written several books, including “Black Ballerinas: My Journey to Our Legacy,” established a nonprofit that aims to promote diversity, equity and inclusion in dance, and co-founded an athleisure brand alongside baseball legend Derek Jeter and UNTUCKit founder Chris Riccobono.
As for her advice for aspiring ballerinas? “Stay true to your unique journey, and don’t compare yourself to others,” she says. “Every dancer’s path is different, and it’s important to celebrate your own progress and milestones. Consistency, resilience and passion are key. Also, never forget to take care of your body — it’s your instrument, and it deserves respect and attention.”
Ahead, Copeland shares 10 of her wellness and fitness essentials with CNN Underscored.
“Hydration is key, especially when you’re always on the move,” Copeland says. “This moisturizer keeps my skin soft and balanced, whether I’m onstage or [offstage].” Formulated with ingredients like barley extract, urea and glycerin, this lightweight lotion is suitable for all skin types and provides up to eight hours of hydration.
“Wearing a fragrance that resonates with me can instantly boost my mood,” she says. “This scent is subtle yet empowering, perfect for when I need that extra lift.” Housed in a recyclable glass bottle, this musk-scented perfume from DedCool is nontoxic and cruelty-free.
A sports bra that is “both supportive and stylish” is essential for Copeland, who considers this high-performance pick from her athleisure brand a must-have. Made from ultra-soft brushed interlock knit, this moisture-wicking sports bra is antimicrobial and has removable pads as well as a UPF rating of 30+, so you’re protected from harmful UV rays.
Copeland admits she “can’t travel without this speaker” and says since having her son in 2022, she “doesn’t leave the house” without it attached to his stroller. Using it to play her son’s favorite songs, Copeland describes the portable Bluetooth speaker as “small and powerful,” thanks to its big audio and punchy bass.
Copeland loves these disposable under-eye patches, which work to smooth wrinkles and banish puffy eyes. Infused with ingredients like collagen and castor oil, the gel eye patches can be placed in the fridge before use for a cooling effect. “After long days or early mornings, these under-eye patches are a lifesaver,” she says. “They refresh and rejuvenate my eyes, helping me look and feel more awake.”
“My go-to workout sneakers are [the] Nike Free RN Flyknit,” Copeland says, noting that “they’re lightweight and supportive.” Available in men’s and women’s sizes, these sneakers are customizable and made using the brand’s flyknit uppers for comfortable all-day wear. “They provide the perfect balance between cushioning and stability,” she says. “Comfort is key, and these sneakers never let me down.”
When it comes to achieving a sleek, pulled-back look, Copeland considers this hair product her secret weapon. “This is the first edge gel I’ve found that lays my hair,” she says. Formulated with coconut oil, flaxseed oil and antimicrobial neem oil, this gel from Shea Moisture is free of parabens, mineral oil, petrolatum and phthalates.
Copeland loves rose scents and says when she burns this candle, “You’d never know I don’t have flowers in my home.” Evoking the smell of a fresh rose bouquet, this luxe candle is available in four different sizes. “Lighting this candle is my way of winding down after a busy day,” she says. “The scent is calming and helps me create a serene environment for relaxation and reflection.”
Copeland likes to pair her sports bras with these “flattering, supportive and comfortable” leggings. In addition to being moisture-wicking, these high-waisted leggings have handy side pockets so you can carry a few personal items on the go.
The ballet dancer is a fan of this bodysuit from Kim Kardashian’s shapewear brand, which she notes offers the perfect support. “I wear this bodysuit when I want to feel both comfortable and supported, whether I’m going on walks or wearing it as support under clothes,” she says. “It’s versatile and helps me move with ease.” Designed to sculpt the waist and tummy while defining your bust, this scoop-neck bodysuit is made from polyamide and elastane, which offers just the right amount of compression and stretch. It also has adjustable convertible straps that allow you to wear them on the shoulder or cross back.