Marching Through the Heat: College Band Members Tackle Physical Challenges

Endurance, Preparation Key to Preventing Injuries

College football season is underway, but another group of top performers is hitting the field too: band members. Just like college athletes, marching band members face a rigorous schedule of rehearsals and performances under the hot Texas sun. These musicians also endure physical strain which could pose a significant risk of injuries if proper precautions aren’t taken.

“Marching band members qualify under the broad category of marching performers, and they tend to have overuse injuries, particularly in the lower extremities,” David S. Edwards, M.D., Texas Tech Physicians sports medicine physician, said. “These include foot and ankle injuries, shin splints, hip tendonitis and even back problems. Lumbar sprains and strains can all be problems for the marching performing athlete.”