Why strength training is suitable for performing artists

Strength training is suitable for performing artists. Recent research has shown that strength training can also increase flexibility. Strength training gives your body a platform to handle the load and physical demands that are placed on your body while performing. It will make you a more versatile performer and will help your overall health and wellbeing.

Strength work should be different to your performance training. For example, a ballet dancer will benefit from using weights with lunges or a leg press machine to build a strong platform to take off for jumps with more power, height and control.

What should your strength training involve?

• Weights or at least your own body weight
• Aim to use big muscle groups requiring whole body stability. For example, squats and push ups.
• Incorporate a good breathing technique, especially for vocalists and wind instrumentalists.

For more tips on breathing click here.

You can participate in strength training up to 3 times a week. Machines at the gym can assist you to isolate muscle groups, while lifting weights without the help of machines will challenge your stability more. If you don’t like the idea of signing up to a gym you can purchase some dumbbells and resistance bands and get a good workout at home. There are plenty of ways to get strong without the use of any equipment at all. Body weight exercises are very challenging and can build your strength without overloading joints.

Book in with a physio to see how they can help you improve your performance.