Heather Garner has a game plan to get ready for stressors her body is about to encounter. During the weeks leading up to her main event, thoughtful preparation is needed and time is set aside faithfully each day to train. Careful attention to detail guarantees optimum results, and she knows from experience there are no shortcuts.

She warms up with stretching exercises to keep her muscles limber and pays close attention to posture and form to avoid injury. Split second timing and precise execution separates the pack. She knows she must be in shape to endure the thousands of repetitive movements required during a two-hour period. She often relies on her chiropractor, massage therapist and acupuncturist to work on her body so the muscles and tendons can do their jobs under the physical demands placed on them.

Although these routines sound similar to something a competitive athlete might endure for a race, Garner is actually gearing up for the physical and mental challenges of an upcoming concert. She plays viola with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, the Lancaster Festival Orchestra and the recently founded New Albany Symphony. She has been performing since she was 12 years old.

Musicians and Fitness
It was a very warm weekend afternoon in June as the sun’s rays and heat caused extreme discomfort among the hundreds of people gathered to listen to the Columbus Jazz Orchestra. As uncomfortable as I was, my attention was drawn to the musicians on stage, who had the difficult task of performing in sweltering temperatures. Prior to attending the concert, I had given very little thought to the physical challenges musicians face.

But then I realized excellent physical stamina is a prerequisite when one considers the daunting task at hand. These musicians stand in 90-degree weather for more than an hour while strumming guitars, blowing into trombones and projecting their voices to a spread-out audience. To be proficient as a musician is to possess many of the same attributes inherent in well-trained athletes. These include being well-conditioned – both mentally and physically – and engaging in activities that reduce the risk of physical injury.

Injury Prevention
Athletes and musicians share many commonalities. When athletes engage in activities such as running, playing basketball or performing a gymnastics routine, they warm up. They know it is not prudent to start a vigorous activity without warming up, as that would invite muscle and/or joint injuries. Like the athlete, musicians warm up before practice or a performance. Musicians use hundreds of small muscles in their fingers and hands, as well as larger muscles in their shoulders that are susceptible to strains, sprains and other maladies.

Athletes are susceptible to overuse injuries such as running too long or staying out on the football field for extended periods of time. Athletes must take breaks and stretch or relax. The musician who undergoes constant physical tension while practicing for two or more hours (during they experience repetitive movements) also needs to take many breaks.

Overusing the muscles integral to playing an instrument can end a career. Musicians who play string instruments are known for developing carpal tunnel syndrome as well as other injuries that are just as serious to them as a torn ACL is to an athlete. Posture can also be a concern as musicians may be seated in one place for hours at a time. Poor posture can promote the development of serious back problems. For these reasons, musicians take breaks periodically.

Anyone who is an athlete has been told, at one time or another, to “listen to your body.” Pain is indicative of a potential problem. Seeking medical help and/or resting are prudent when the athlete feels pain. Musicians are wise to follow the same advice.

The next time you attend a concert and are surrounded by the beautiful sounds you hear, stop and think of people like Garner who practice countless hours to perform at their best. Like any well-conditioned athlete, musicians need to develop sound bodies and minds to achieve peak performance.

Dr. Philip Heit is Professor Emeritus of Physical Activity and Educational Services at The Ohio State University.