How a Utah dancer went from ballroom prodigy to television record-breaker
In short: Before she was a household name on Dancing with the Stars, Lindsay Arnold was a competitive phenomenon. From winning youth championships at age eight to setting unprecedented scoring records, her journey from a family dance studio in Lindon to the heights of professional ballroom is a masterclass in discipline.
Born in Provo, Utah, on January 11, 1994, Lindsay Arnold’s path was paved by a family deeply embedded in dance. Her mother, Melinda, opened The Vibe studio in Lindon to provide a space for Lindsay and her three sisters. While her training spanned ballet, jazz, and hip hop, her primary foundation was built under ballroom coach Shirley Ballas. Her father, Joshua, previously played as a defensive back for the BYU Cougars. This athletic lineage complements her diverse training, which also included contemporary and hip hop styles.
Arnold’s competitive prowess emerged early. By age eight, she was already competing in dancesport, securing first-place titles at both the U.S. Open Youth and Junior Latin Championships. This early success transitioned into a high-profile television career, beginning with her stint on So You Think You Can Dance in 2012, where she reached the top eight. Her international competitive reach extended to being a finalist in the World Junior Latin Team Match and the World Cup Latin Junior Championships.
Her tenure on Dancing with the Stars saw significant highs and lows. In 2013, she joined the show as one of its youngest professionals. While she faced demotions to the dance troupe between seasons 17 and 20, she eventually reclaimed her pro status, culminating in a historic victory in season 25. Partnered with Jordan Fisher, she set a single-season record with nine perfect scores.
Beyond the ballroom, Arnold has expanded into business and wellness. In 2018, she launched her lifestyle brand, L.A.C., and in December 2020, she founded The Movement Club, an on-demand fitness program. Her career reflects a transition from a specialized athlete to a multifaceted entrepreneur. Her professional journey included partnerships with diverse figures, ranging from boxer Victor Ortiz to NFL star Calvin Johnson. Even during periods of lower placement, such as her twelfth-place finish in season 30, she maintained a prominent presence on the ballroom floor. Her entrepreneurial ventures include a line of cosmetics and accessories. Additionally, she holds certification as a personal trainer.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Lindsay Arnold
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