Over the weekend I was fortunate to watch two amazing rock bands, REO Speedwagon and Train, bands that have spread music entertainment across more than a few decades. Fortunately (or maybe unfortunately), I am old enough to have enjoyed the amazing music each have provided over these decades, but what really impressed me this weekend was more than the music, it was the amazing fitness that these band members showed, particularly the lead singers. Each band played for roughly 2 hours straight, and aside from a few short moments for equipment change, did not stop.
Lead singers, 72 year old Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon, and 55 year old Pat Monahan of Train didn’t miss a beat. They belted out rendition of old and new songs with ardent fervor and covered every inch of the stage with the enthusiasm of a child at a playground — and I guess to them, that was their playground.
The fitness nerd in me couldn’t help wonder what their level of fitness must be and how I would have loved to gather some metrics on their onstage antics. They basically performed at near max effort for 2 hours straight in jeans and t-shirts under hot lights with the added boost of hazy smoke thrown into the mix. Impressive to say the least. It also had me thinking that these rockstars have been doing this for decades and wondering how it is that they have kept themselves in such amazing condition for so long.
Maintaining peak physical fitness is crucial for rockstars who face the demands of grueling tours, high-energy performances, and the lifestyle associated with the music industry. Despite the stereotypical image of a rockstar indulging in excesses, I have found that many prioritize their health to sustain their careers.
Rigorous Physical Training
Rockstars often incorporate rigorous physical training into their daily routines. This can include a combination of cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and flexibility workouts. I remember reading once how rock legend Mick Jagger was highly encouraged (and potentially enforced) by his father to establish a regular fitness routine and it was something he has carried throughout his entire rock career.
Many rockstars work with personal trainers who tailor fitness programs to their specific needs. Similarly to athletes having specialized coaches, these trainers design routines that address the physical demands of performing while considering the rockstar’s on stage demands. The coaches also provide great accountability for the artist amongst the demands of their performing travels and schedules.
Diet and Nutrition
Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining peak fitness to perform. Rockstars often follow strict dietary plans that include balanced meals rich in proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. They will typically avoid processed foods, excessive sugar, and alcohol to maintain energy levels through the day as well as overall health. Hydration is also key, with many ensuring they drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and maintain vocal health. Watching firsthand, I witnessed both Cronin and Monahan throwing down fluids between songs.
Mental Health and Stress Management
The mental health aspect of fitness is often overlooked, but it is vital for rockstars. The pressures of fame, extensive travel, and irregular schedules can take a toll on mental well-being. Many rockstars practice mindfulness techniques such as meditation, deep-breathing exercises, and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) to manage stress and anxiety.
Consistency Despite Touring
Touring can disrupt routine fitness and dietary regimens, but many rockstars find ways to maintain consistency. They might bring portable workout equipment, like resistance bands and dumbbells, to use in hotel rooms or backstage. Some even arrange for mobile gyms to travel with them. Additionally, they scout local gyms or outdoor spaces where they can work out. Diet-wise, they might work with personal chefs or rely on meal delivery services that cater to their nutritional needs while on the road.
Sleep and Recovery
Adequate sleep and recovery are essential for sustained fitness. Rockstars often prioritize sleep, ensuring they get enough rest despite their hectic schedules. They might use blackout curtains, earplugs, and other sleep aids to create an optimal sleeping environment. Recovery techniques, such as massages help in muscle recovery and injury prevention.
While the rock and roll lifestyle is often associated with substance abuse, many modern rockstars steer clear of drugs and excessive alcohol consumption. They understand the detrimental effects these substances can have on their physical and mental health, short and long term, opting instead for healthier ways to unwind, socialize and recover.
Live like a Rockstar?
Rockstars stay fit through a combination of rigorous physical training, personalized fitness regimens, balanced diets, mental health practices, consistency, adequate sleep and recovery, and positive peer influence. By prioritizing their health, they ensure they can deliver high-energy performances and sustain long, successful careers in the music industry.
The principles that these rockstars live by are no different than what I advocate for my clients — consistent strength training, balanced diets, stress management and recovery practices, and surround yourself with like minded positive influences. If you’ve ever dreamed of being a rockstar, maybe you’re not as far from one as you think.
Dr. Dan Dodd is an Exercise Science professional and Coach for Body Systems, a nutrition and training coaching company. Dan is an avid writer on nutrition, exercise, metabolism and body composition. If you’d like to receive more stories, subscribe to get these stories and more.
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This post was previously published on medium.com.
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From The Good Men Project on Medium
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Photo credit: Jakayla Toney on Unsplash
