Band Physical Fitness — It’s Like Weightlifting for Different Muscle Groups

We have all heard the tropes. “I’m not in sports, I’m just in band/theater/art.” Perhaps you’ve even heard the term “band geeks” to describe someone who is a musician rather than a “jock.” Well, we think it’s high time to pop these micro aggressive bubbles of negativity and shine a light on just how fit and buff musicians really are. That means those who play brass, woodwinds, percussion, strings, and piano. Oh my!

Fit as a Fiddle

When students play any musical instrument, they are engaged in physical activity. They build muscle and expand lung capacity. They train their bodies to perform tasks and respond efficiently and rapidly. 

Their hand-eye coordination is finely honed to execute complex and repetitive motions, building some of the fastest and most diverse neuro pathways in their brains while giving their hearts a little cardio workout to keep it strong.

Musicians are oftentimes addressing different and sometimes smaller muscle groups, while other times they are experiencing a full body workout! (Just ask a drummer, or a member of any marching band, especially the drum majors!)

Woodwind or Brass Musicians

There are obvious muscles that are involved when playing a band woodwind or brass instrument. The tiny muscle groups in the face (lips, cheeks, tongue) form embouchures that are unique for each of the different instruments in the band. 

The musician’s throat and diaphragm (major muscles under the lungs and above the stomach) help control the breath. As wind musicians, they develop powerful and large lung capacities that are as big and strong as competitive swimmers! 

Arm, shoulder, and upper back muscles are used to hold and maneuver the instrument itself. And because some brass instruments can be heavy (think the tuba and French Horn) the musician must develop endurance to hold the instrument for extended periods of time during rehearsals and performances.

Percussionists and Drummers

For all musicians, including percussionists/drummers, core muscles are used for posture. Their arms and hands need to learn how to hold and operate the instrument or sticks.

What’s more, the percussionists have to move and rotate between a wide variety of instruments of different sizes and mechanics. And when students are finally eligible in the upper grades to join other ensembles, things like marching bands or show bands can provide full body and cardio workouts.

String Musicians

Violinists, cellists, and guitarists are faced with physical workouts as well. Fingers, hands, and forearms are used to press down on the strings to produce notes. Holding a string instrument for extended periods of time also engages the muscles in the shoulder, upper back, and neck.

Supporting the instrument’s weight while playing requires proper posture as well. Strong core muscles are necessary to maintain good posture and ensure overall body alignment while playing.

The neck muscles are engaged too, particularly for those playing the violin or viola which is supported by the chin and shoulder. Because cellists and guitarists are usually seated while playing, they must employ the use of their leg muscles to maintain stability and proper posture.

Finally, string musicians must make precise finger movements to create the sounds they desire, and so must develop and maintain fine motor control to play with accuracy and expression.

Pianists and Keyboard Musicians

While technically a string instrument, a piano requires a musician to develop strength in a wide range of muscle groups as well.

A pianist must have stamina and be physically fit to perform. Of course, a pianist’s hands and fingers are constantly engaged while playing as are their forearms.

Maintaining proper posture at the keyboard is also required, which involves the shoulders, upper back, core, and neck muscles.

The legs are used to operate the pedals as well as provide stability and support while seated during rehearsals and performances.

Finally, a pianist needs to control their breathing and diaphragm while performing to support their playing and musical expression.

Let’s Get Physical!

Playing an instrument is not for the meek or the weak. All types of instruments require a musician to build muscle and strength and develop stamina and endurance, all while (seemingly) effortlessly creating beautiful music. So, if you’re still tempted to call someone a “band geek,” we’re quite sure it might be time to change your tune.

Get started on your musical journey today! Contact A Kopp Music to learn more about our teaching methods or to schedule your music lessons.