When you are in the middle of a live music performance, it is easy to get caught up in the moment and put small things aside. However, even when you are rocking out, you need to keep an eye on your health. Performing onstage requires constant running around under hot lights that will drain your bodies fluid, and quickly. It is crucial to stay hydrated as a musician in order for you to perform at your best ability.

The human body is made up of 60% water, and a loss of as little as 2% of water will begin to affect your mental functions, leading to dizziness, fatigue, hunger and an array of more severe effects.  Strictly speaking, by the time you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated, which means your body has already begun to feel these effects. Keep in mind that after a multi-hour live music performance, your body has undoubtedly lost fart more water weight than that.

If you are performing in a summer music festival, this advice needs to be you and your band members main priority. Due to long days, increased alcohol consumption and limited shade, people regularly pass out from dehydration at festivals, increasing their risk of heat stroke and several other detrimental medical conditions.

It is also important to note that alcohol in any form is not an acceptable substitute for hydration. Alcohol binds to the water in your body and increases your water loss, regardless if you are a performer or spectator. Drinking beers while you play will, if anything, only help increase dehydration. It is also a good idea to avoid consuming caffeine during a performance, since it too encourages water loss.

So, whenever you are rocking out – whether it is at a club or a festival – make sure that you keep plenty of liquids near by to keep yourself hydrated.There is nothing less appealing to a fan than seeing their favorite band doing all that they can to take care of themselves to insure a spectacular show. Keep a large water bottle close by and do not ever let it become empty.

Staying hydrated will not only allow your body to rock out longer…  you will feel re-energized for the after-party later!