Alan Bersten stands precisely at 6 feet 0 inches (183 cm). In the demanding world of professional ballroom and Latin dance, where height dynamics dictate framing, partnering lines, and center-of-gravity management, standing at an even six feet places him in an optimal physical bracket. This stature gives him the wingspan required for sweeping arm lines in contemporary routines while keeping him grounded enough for intricate footwork and explosive hip action.
Understanding how his physical stature interacts with his choreography and television career sheds light on what makes him a standout professional on Dancing with the Stars. Far from just being a number on a bio page, his height influences every lift, frame, and routine he builds for his celebrity partners.
Alan Bersten Height and Physical Proportions in Ballroom Dance
In professional ballroom dance, a competitor's height directly dictates how they hold a standard frame. At six feet tall, Alan Bersten possesses a longer torso and extended limbs, which naturally magnify every movement on stage. Judges look for extension, posture, and spatial awareness—elements that become instantly visible when a dancer commands a tall frame.
However, being six feet tall in a partner dance comes with distinct mechanical challenges. Partnering requires constant adaptation to individuals of varying statures. Whether he's paired with shorter celebrities or tall athletes, Bersten must constantly adjust his center of balance. A tall frame means a higher center of gravity, making fast, low-to-the-ground Latin dances like the samba or cha-cha require extra core strength to maintain sharp grounding.
Partner Dynamics: How Height Affects His DWTS Pairings
Over his tenure on television, Bersten has danced with an extensive roster of celebrities possessing wildly different heights and backgrounds. Partnering dynamics change drastically depending on the height differential between the pro and the celebrity.
When paired with petite partners, Bersten's six-foot frame helps create dramatic visual contrasts during lifts and spinning sequences. His height allows him to hoist partners effortlessly during complex freestyle routines, providing stability and security. Conversely, when partnered with taller competitors or athletes, his height allows for a balanced, symmetrical frame that satisfies traditional ballroom criteria. His adaptability across these diverse pairings highlights his technical versatility as a choreographer.
Background, Training, and Early Career Foundations
Born on May 26, 1994, in Minnetonka, Minnesota, Bersten began his formal dance training at the age of seven, guided heavily by his older brother, Gene. Long before achieving television fame, he competed extensively in youth and amateur divisions, securing titles such as the Youth Championship and Under 21 National Titles.
His formative years involved rigorous training across multiple styles, including Latin, ballroom, contemporary, jazz, and hip-hop. This multidisciplinary background ensured that his physical growth matched his technical repertoire. As he transitioned into adult competitions, his stature became a natural asset, helping him project presence across large competition floors. His early breakthrough came during season 10 of So You Think You Can Dance, where he reached the top six, setting the stage for his subsequent professional career on network television.
Overcoming Physical and Medical Adversities
A dancer's career relies entirely on physical well-being, making health obstacles uniquely threatening. In 2018, while touring with Dancing with the Stars, Bersten experienced severe health complications. Medical evaluations revealed symptoms tied to a tumor on his parathyroid gland, requiring immediate surgical intervention.
He underwent surgery to remove his left parathyroid gland, an ordeal that forced him to pause his rigorous performance schedule. Despite the severity of the operation and the physical toll it took on his body, Bersten returned to the dance floor after just a brief recovery period. This resilience underscored his physical and mental stamina, proving that his capability extends far beyond natural athletic gifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is Alan Bersten?
Alan Bersten stands at 6 feet 0 inches (183 cm) tall.
What are Alan Bersten's primary dance styles?
While he is best known for professional ballroom and Latin choreography, he is proficient in contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, and Broadway styles.
Has Alan Bersten won Dancing with the Stars?
Yes, he won season 28 of the show alongside his celebrity partner, Hannah Brown.
Where was Alan Bersten born?
He was born and raised in Minnetonka, Minnesota, where he began his dance training as a child.
