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The best fitness exercises for violinists?

February 13, 2013 at 11:32 AM

Some people say that violinists shouldn't have muscle. When I'm at gym I often doubt about what to do, for my health, and for my musical passion.

I think stretching is good to me, but what about Pilates? aerobic? yoga? swimming? weightlifting? bodybuilding? ....boxing?

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Well I am partial to Tennis. I am sticking with that ;)
Yoga and weight training (1x a week, moderate weights) and stretching are choices I like and follow. Yoga, in particular, stretches you in quirky ways you don't fully appreciate until you're older and not having the muscle/joint issues that others are. It untightens the parts of you that tighten up while holding the violin.

I also do kickboxing, ballet and jogging (okay I'm a fitness junkie) but wouldn't say any of those are "good" in promoting a "violin body." But nor are they hurting anything. Clears my brain out, which helps in different ways.

wow!, kickboxing... I think you both are right, the best exercise is the one that makes you happy