Alix Earle, TikTok star turned Dancing with the Stars contestant, is facing more than just choreography this season. After her fiery cha-cha debut on September 16, 2025, Earle is opening up about the physical and mental strain that comes with competing on Dancing with the Stars (DWTS).
The Lead-Up: Rehearsals, Doubt, and Early Struggles
Well before she hit the ballroom floor, Alix revealed on September 8, 2025, that rehearsals were already pushing her past her comfort zone. In a “Get Ready With Me” video, she admitted she couldn’t complete the first routine without panting and needing breaks. “We do 15 seconds and I’m like, ‘I have to sit on the floor and take a break,’” she said, humorously but honestly.
Her partner, Val Chmerkovskiy, had earlier told media outlets that Alix was “killing it” in rehearsal and that he was proud of her progress. He expressed excitement for what they could achieve together this season.
Physical Toll: Bruises, Toenails, and Stamina Battles
After her season premiere performance, Alix posted on TikTok on September 21, 2025, that she’s dealing with bruised collarbones and has even lost a toenail. “My toenail came off during practice today,” she said, drawing a bath.
Stamina has also been a major hurdle. “I thought week one was hard — the stamina, the stuff we’re doing, I’m like, ‘I don’t even know,’” she shared. She also points out that some of the tricks and moves feel beyond her current ability, but she’s signing up anyway, determined to learn.
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Support System: Boyfriend, Family, and Passion
In the hours before her first live taping, Alix received reassuring words from her boyfriend, NFL player Braxton Berrios, even though he couldn’t be in the audience. He compared performing live to his pre-game anxiety, reminding her that nerves can be a sign you’re doing something important.
Alix also noted that family was in attendance, giving her extra motivation. She said growing up dancing competitively helped shape her work ethic, even if ballroom has presented new challenges.
Premiere Night: “Circus”, Critiques, and First Scores
The season 34 premiere aired September 16, 2025. Alix performed a cha-cha to Britney Spears’ “Circus” with Val Chmerkovskiy. The staging included a whip and a ring of flames — bold visual choices intended to match her high energy.
In reviews of the premiere, PEOPLE’s recap calls her debut “Alix Earle Has Arrived!” She told Val beforehand that she’s been a longtime fan of the show and explained that dance was “my sport growing up.” Val acknowledged the process has been “very overwhelming” for her, but Alix committed to mastering the routine.
Judges were generally supportive. Bruno Tonioli praised her for “sharp, clean, precise and powerful” movement, while he also reminded her to focus on the routine’s connection and continuity — typical for week one when performers are just settling in. Derek Hough agreed that her performance was impressive for a first routine. She scored **13/20**.
Recovery and Routine Off the Dance Floor
Between rehearsals, Alix has developed a recovery routine to manage soreness and prevent injury. As reported on September 15, she shared a regimen that includes stretching, physical therapy tools, and managing rest periods.
Val’s positive reinforcement seems key: he’s described Alix as making progress fast. At the VMAs, he said he was excited about what she’s already accomplished. His encouragement appears to help her mental resilience.
Best, Worst, and What’s Next
While there were standout moments in the premiere — both good and clumsy — Alix emerged as one of the most talked-about debutants. PEOPLE’s “Best, Worst, Oops” roundup noted Alix among the “best” for her debut energy and presence, though with the usual rookie rough edges.
No eliminations took place in the premiere. However, a double elimination has been scheduled for episode 2. DWTS airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC, with streaming available the next day on Hulu.
What This Means for Alix & DWTS Fans
- Alix is pushing her body harder than she anticipated. The bruises, stamina issues, and lost toenail show the gap between social media fame and athletic performance.
- Her growth during the first week suggests she has more to give — high risk, high reward. Fans may see sharper technique or more daring choices in future dances.
- Her vulnerability—being open about injury, exhaustion, self-doubt—makes her relatable. That could help her connect with the audience voters.
- Because of the strong visuals of her premiere (flames, bold music, etc.), she’s already grabbing headlines. That momentum may give her a boost unless she stumbles or gets injured further.
Conclusion
Alix Earle’s Dancing with the Stars journey is off to a dramatic start. The sparkle and spectacle are there — but so are the sweat, pain, and nerves. As DWTS (or “DWTS” for short) unfolds this season, watching how she balances the glamour with the grind will be one of its most compelling arcs. Her bravery to share the struggle — collarbone bruises, falling toenail, and all — makes her more than just a contestant. She’s someone to root for.
@alixearle Week 2 is not going as smoothly for big al hahaha
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