by Cari Cole
I recommend aerobic exercise on a regular basis to strengthen the cardiovascular system and improve the breath. This is great for singers.
Do the aerobic exercise of your choice for 30-45 minutes 4 times per week.
Aerobics help to awaken and open the lungs improving breathing, reduce stress and promote better circulation. Aerobics the day of performing assures a warmed up body and voice. Try running, swimming, jumping rope or biking for 30 minutes the next time you perform and feel your voice soar! Especially useful for days when you are tired or are coming down with something. Helps to knock out whatever ails you and jump start your energy.
Besides the eliptical, stairmaster, step class or
treadmill, here’s some other cool alternatives.
Spinning: is a serious aerobic workout — have you ever been to a class? I swear spinners are possessed! Great workout!
Rollerblading: Warming – be sure to wear helmets and pads until you learn this. Have you ever seen a beginning rollerblader? Then you know the deal. For those of you who take to the blades, it is great exercise and loads of fun.
Swimming: This is perhaps one of the best ways to exercise for vocalists. It builds the entire cardiovascular system, strengthens and tones muscles while stretching them, gives you iron lungs therefore – a total body workout. In most cities there are pools to swim in for free or excellent choices of pools at the YMCA’s or at some gym’s.
Jumping rope: An excellent accessory to travel with because you can do it anywhere (hotel room, indoors/outdoors.) Some workout instructors use the jump rope alone for a full cardio workout! 10-15 minutes before your show is a great stress reliever and opens up your breathing.
Putting it All Together: The Ideal Week / Exercise 4 -5 times.
An Ideal Week of Exercises would include stretching 4 times per week, aerobics (or similar exercise like dance, swimming etc.) 3 times per week, and weight Training (or similar exercise like some yoga or dance classes that have you lift your own body weight) 2-3 times per week. Not enough exercise will result in tiredness, fatigue, digestive problems, chronic health and vocal problems, anxiety, lack of focus, mental confusion. Regular exercise will keep your body fit and give you with great vocals at the same time — just change it up a bit and keep your body workin’. And remember to have fun!