When musicians think about exercises to improve their musicianship, they’re likely thinking about scales on a piano or violin, not lunges and cardio. Piano lessons in Denver are a great way to become a better pianist, but you might not want to rule out a personal trainer yet, either. That’s because it’s important that our bodies are healthy in order to keep up with our mental and physical music progress. And if musicians are good at one thing, it’s practice!
Different exercises target different muscle groups of the body, so no need to do every single exercise. Find the ones that correspond to the instrument(s) that you play in order to keep your whole body in tip-top shape for maintaining your skill level on your instrument.
Power Yoga
Whether you’re taking piano lessons in Denver, or drum lessons in New York, yoga is a great exercise for everyone. This versatile practice can take many forms, but the fitness-oriented power yoga classes are great for musicians, in particular. These practices focus on breathing, alignment, strength, balance, and opening up the body. A lot of Denver piano teachers recommend yoga, as well.
Core Strengthening
For great core strengthening exercises, think planks, medicine ball ab workouts, and so much more. These exercises are great for vocalists, pianists, and wind instrumentalists. Look to add more exercises that strengthen the muscles in your torso, including your abs and back muscles.
Posture Work
Posture work can take many, many forms, and are often more physical therapy-type movements than they are traditional exercise. This can make them easily accessible exercises for anybody, and perfect for any musician, no matter what your instrument is. Look for exercises that properly align your neck, shoulders, and hips. Posture is very important when playing the piano, so posture work can actually help someone become a better piano player.
Arm Strengthening
Bodyweight and even free-weight exercises offer tailored, customizable workout routines depending on your comfort level. Arm strengthening exercises are great for percussionists, pianists, string, wind, and brass instrumentalists. If you’re one of these, try adding more exercises that strengthen the biceps, shoulders, and triceps.
Intense Cardio
This is another exercise that is great for everyone, no matter your instrument or skill level. Cardio can be tailored to your needs, and achieved through running, cycling, jump roping, or swimming. Any exercise that increases your heart rate and keeps it high is a great exercise for intense cardio.
Dance Classes
If you’re looking for a fun way to improve rhythm and get your heart rate up, dance classes might be for you. Particularly helpful for vocalists and instrumentalists playing in a band or ensemble, these fun classes teach you choreography to a particular musical genre. You can take several types of dance classes to find what suits you best.
Neck and Shoulder Stretches
While everyone benefits from a good neck or shoulder stretch, these can be particularly helpful for pianists, wind instrumentalists, guitar players, and string instrumentalists. These stretches should ease pain and tension in your neck, shoulders, and back while bringing your body back into alignment. These are typically easy, long stretches that don’t require any equipment.
Hip Flexor Stretches
Exercises that stretch your hips, hamstrings, and IT bands can be great for vocalists, pianists, guitarists, and drummers. These exercises stretch the front of your body. They also help compensate and correct all the sitting and leaning forward these musicians can do. Think of runner’s stretches, toe touches, and deep bends to help you find a stretch that works for you.
Outdoor Hobbies
If you love getting outdoors as much as you love playing an instrument, the good news is that outdoor exercises are great for all musicians. Whether you enjoy hiking, kayaking, camping, rock climbing, or sea swimming, these are great ways to breathe deeply and work up a sweat. Outdoor activities are great ways to unwind, clear your mind, and get exercise at the same time.
Meditation
While not a traditional exercise, the act of sitting still, calming your mind, and focusing on your breath for certain lengths of time, or in certain bursts, is a great centering exercise for all performers. Meditation can take different forms, so find one that helps you stay calm and focused before and after a performance.
If you’re looking for piano lessons in Denver, don’t forget to allot some additional practice time for your whole body, too! All of the music teachers working for Lessons In Your Home have a solid understanding of music theory and are experts at teaching it in a way that is easy to digest, even for beginners. They can either come to your home to teach or can also provide online music lessons. Our virtual music lessons are taught by local music teachers who plan their lessons to suit your child. Contact us today to find an instructor near you who will help your child master their skills.