Some bands look at touring like it’s a vacation or a moveable party. That’s fine as long as you don’t go out on the road all that often. But if you’re touring regularly, you’ve got to be more careful about your health.
Touring takes so much planning and effort that when you’re in the midst of it you’ll want to make sure everyone is firing on all cylinders. There’s a lot at stake, too, and you risk losing out on money and opportunities when you compromise your immunity on tour.
Here are seven bits of simple health wisdom to follow on the road:
1. Don’t drive long shifts
If you’re traveling with two or more people, be sure to switch drivers every two or three hours. That’s a long enough shift to make some distance, but short enough to let everyone stretch and use the bathroom before it gets to be an emergency. Plus, you don’t want a tired person behind the wheel. That macho “I can drive eight hours through the night” attitude will get people killed.
If you’re traveling alone in a car, you have less options. But I’d still recommend pulling over every two or three hours at least for a chance to rest the eyes, relax from the tension of the road, and stretch the legs.
2. Exercise often
You’ll be busy on tour (in-store and in-studio shows, checking in and out of hotels, finding places to eat, soundchecks, shows, driving, etc.), and it’ll be difficult to find free time. When you DO get some downtime, instead of going record shopping or whatever, try taking a long walk around town. If you’re near a park, go for a run. If you’re staying in a hotel, use the pool. Don’t just hop in bed and put the cable television on.
Even if you only …read more
Source:: DIY Musician Blog