“Whenever I get the urge to exercise I lie down until the feeling passes.”
This saying has been attributed to everyone from Oscar Wilde to the dean of my college, to a few singers I know. Many of us empathize—we have humiliating memories of feeling too fat, too thin or too uncoordinated to enjoy any type of athletic activity.
That said, interest in exercise has exploded in the last quarter century and for good reason. The generation who didn’t trust anyone over 30 has long passed that milestone themselves. Singers in particular aren’t ready to acquiesce to the “inevitable” signs of aging. We no longer “hope we die before we get old.” We want to feel and look youthful and vital for as long as possible.
Many singers seem to have stopped the clock when it comes to aging. Cosmetic procedures may be responsible for many such youthful faces, but it’s hard to fake a young body, particularly in an era where singers seem to be wearing less and less, onstage and off. Working in a film and photographic medium that adds 10 to 15 pounds makes our plight even more daunting. The pressure is also on for men, who are expected to reveal muscular upper bodies, and “washboard abs.” If we want to be competitive, we had better look the part, because someone else certainly will.
Many singers lament the “good old days” (which probably weren’t so good) when singers did not feel the pressure to look as young and thin as we do today. Before blaming MTV for all our woes, remember that many singers of the Golden Age—worshipped the way movie stars and supermodels are today—were obsessed with appearances. Constantly photographed in revealing ensembles, they understood the importance of looking good for the camera and their fans.
Mary Garden (1874-1967) a major star of the early 20th century, was as famous for her gorgeous face and flawless body as for her fine voice. Garden, who appeared nude in numerous productions of Salome, was obsessed with diet and exercise and spent hours each morning on a rowing machine. The diva allowed herself just one meal a day.
Amelita Galli-Curci (1881-1963) was also an exercise fan, a yoga aficionado and a strict vegetarian. Maria Callas’ transformation from a plump young woman to a slim, glamorous fashion icon was almost as important to her obsessed fans as her monumental talent.
For those of us who have limited athletic gifts, injuries, weight issues, or who simply can’t find an exercise plan interesting or enjoyable enough to stick with, fitness can be a daunting issue. Many of us still think of exercise as punishment for not being as thin or fit as we’d like. As long as exercise has a negative connotation we probably won’t stay with it for long.
Think about what your exercise needs are, what benefits you hope to attain and maintain, and what type of social setting you are comfortable in. What type of program is safe for your age, weight and body type? Discuss any illnesses and injuries with a trainer who can give an accurate appraisal of what you are capable of doing (you might be surprised) and what benefits to expect.
Many singers enjoy the structure and camaraderie of a group class. Health clubs offer lots of classes at different times of the day, usually are not expensive and provide social opportunities (great for busy singers who have trouble meeting new people). Many New York clubs offer discounts to union members and people over 55. Try out all the available classes and choose the ones that are the most enjoyable. Many of these clubs have cafes with healthful food, which may keep you from hitting Ben and Jerry’s after exercising.
Most clubs in urban areas offer some form of aerobics, yoga, and “body sculpting,” a class in which participants use free weights, stretch bands, Swedish balls and other easy-to-use equipment to tone gluteals, abdominals and upper arms. Tai Chi is relaxing, develops coordination, may bring down blood pressure and can be done by almost everyone. “Step” aerobics uses platforms of different heights to develop cardiac fitness and coordination. If you have bad knees, I’d skip the step classes and stick with body sculpting or low-impact aerobics.
If you have serious knee or back problems, a water exercise class might be perfect. Your local “Y” or health club probably has one. Many singers swear by these classes, since the resistance of water helps develop breathing and they get a great workout without putting pressure on vulnerable knees.
If you hate the chitchat and “attitude” of a class, ask the trainer at the gym to teach you how to operate the machines. Bring a Walkman with your fave tunes, language tapes, etc. and zone out the world, pedaling and pumping your way to fitness in relative peace.
Still need more focus? Arrange to work one-on-one with a trainer who understands your personal needs. A tenor friend of mine—a former fitness dropout—has lost 30 pounds with the help of a trainer who created a program specifically for him. If you have space at home the trainer can come to you, but most people go to the gym. If you have late mornings free, this is the best time to avoid crowds.
If you want to lift heavy weights or bench-press, take it slow and easy (don’t begin this type of regimen without a trainer) and don’t forget to breathe! Tight or held breaths can cause vocal stress and actually rupture the vocal folds. Strained muscles anywhere around the neck, back and face can also make for painful singing, so treat your body with the care it deserves.
Female singers with large busts should choose a workout bra that provides extra support. Avoid pulling or stretching tissue around the breasts. This tissue is sensitive, bruises easily and hurts for a long time when injured. Breasts with stretch marks make you look older, so take care of care of them while exercising.
If you work with a trainer, let them know you are a singer. If possible find someone who regularly works with singers. Even small cities usually have an opera house—you might call that opera company and get recommendations.
I personally love aerobics and modern dance. I think it is the best all-around exercise and releases a ton of endorphins (hormones that make us feel good!) Many singers feel they are not coordinated enough to do this type of exercise, but if you attend a class regularly, you may get used to the “routines” and enjoy it.
Don’t get discouraged if you can’t keep up the first few times. I have some dance experience, but certainly don’t consider myself a dancer. I learned to do most of the moves after a few weeks. No one cares if you can’t do everything perfectly, and you needn’t worry about it either. Your classmates are busy doing their own work; they are not even looking at you, believe me.
If an exercise hurts your knees or back, don’t do it! For example if your stomach muscles are not in great shape, be careful when doing sit-ups and push-ups to avoid straining your neck (which not only hurts but can put pressure on vocal folds). It’s fine to do push-ups against the wall until you are strong enough. I also work with stretch bands at home, which helps me develop upper body strength.
Yoga is currently the exercise of choice for many people. Done correctly it can lower blood pressure, increase flexibility, improve coordination and may reduce hot flashes in menopausal women. The jury is still out as to whether it increases muscle mass or aids in weight loss. Do not attempt the shoulder stand if you have any history of neck problems, whiplash, stiffness, etc. Many singers have had problems with this exercise. Some yoga breathing exercises are also controversial for singers. Pick and choose which poses work best for you. You don’t have to do every exercise. Before beginning any exercise program, check with your physician, especially if you have any injuries.
If you live in a mild climate, you may never have to go to a gym or class. If you have good knees, a run in the park is fabulous exercise, and bicycle riding is even better. If you are lucky enough to live near the beach, by all means go for a swim (don’t forget sunscreen!)
With so many options, fitness-minded singers can find their ideal plan. Try out every type of exercise available in your area. Keep an open mind, and don’t give up! Fitness isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity for great health and great looks. You’re worth it—get moving!
