Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour is not just a display of incredible talent and showmanship, but it is also a physical feat that requires immense endurance and strength. According to fitness expert Nancy Best, the rigorous choreography, quick backstage changes, and hours of singing and dancing on stage are akin to running multiple marathons or competing in the Crossfit Games. To sustain this level of performance, Taylor focuses on three pillars of training: cardio, strength, and mobility.
Nancy explains that building cardio fitness is crucial for overall heart health and helps Taylor to maintain her stamina throughout the long tour. Running and spinning are likely key components of her cardio regimen, helping to lower her resting heart rate and improve her breath control while performing. Interestingly, Taylor has mentioned that she sings the entire setlist while running on a treadmill to build up her endurance, coordination, and core strength.
Singing requires engagement of the intercostal muscles and diaphragm, which are essential for breath control and hitting the right notes. Running while singing adds an extra challenge for Taylor’s core, helping her to stay stable on stage during dynamic performances. Nancy emphasizes the importance of a strong core for connecting to the diaphragm and supporting the body through various movements like jumping, balancing, and sitting down.
Additionally, Taylor’s elaborate stage presence, which includes high-energy dance routines and playing instruments like the guitar, necessitates full-body strength. Compound exercises like squats and deadlifts are crucial for building muscle strength and stability to withstand the physical demands of the tour. This strength training regimen complements her cardio workouts and helps to enhance her overall performance on stage.
Wearing high heels for extended periods can strain the ankles, calves, and hamstrings, which is why targeted mobility exercises are essential to prevent chronic pain and injuries. Taylor’s trainer incorporates a daily mobility sequence to improve joint mobility, especially in the hips and shoulders, which are crucial for her choreography. Yin yoga may also be part of her routine to enhance range of motion and flexibility in specific muscle groups.
Rest and recovery are equally important components of Taylor’s fitness regimen, considering the intense physical exertion during each show and the demanding tour schedule. Adequate rest allows her body to recover and regulate stress hormones like adrenaline, which can impact overall health if not managed effectively. Restorative activities like ice baths, acupuncture, and other recovery techniques are likely incorporated to optimize Taylor’s downtime and sustain her physical well-being throughout the tour.
Fan Engagement and Workouts
The good news for Swifties is that they can also benefit from Taylor’s workout routines by engaging with her music. Nancy suggests that different albums lend themselves to various types of workouts, from pilates and yoga flows to high-intensity interval training and boxing classes. Dancing along to Taylor’s songs at her concerts is also a fun way to incorporate exercise into a fan’s routine and stay active while enjoying the music.
Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour is not just a musical spectacle but also a testament to her dedication to physical fitness and performance excellence. By prioritizing cardio, strength training, mobility, and recovery, Taylor is able to sustain her energy and vitality throughout the tour, captivating audiences with her unforgettable performances. Fans can join in the fitness journey by incorporating Taylor’s music into their workouts and celebrating the power of movement and music together.