Ah, summer… Everyone’s favorite time of year. Temperatures are rising, pool parties are just on the horizon, and everyone’s favorite country music festival is officially here—that’s right, STAGECOACH! For many, festivals are a time where health and wellness goals are put on the backburner, though it doesn’t have to be. Take it from me, a health nut and avid festival goer—you CAN be healthy, rock out, and enjoy your environment every step of the way. Whether you’re there to sing along to Kenny Chesney or honkytonk your heart away (or both!), here are a few simple tips you need to know to make sure you stay on track.
- Get your morning energy fix
Long days and hot weather is a combination for feeling exhausted. If you want to be able to line dance long into the night, you're going to realize quickly that coffee is a necessity to keep your energy up. In fact, don't be surprised if you need more coffee than usual -- you'll be getting less sleep and using more energy than usual throughout the day, after all! The best way to spice up your coffee is with a Leaner Creamer travel pack and a dash of coconut sugar stirred in. Yum!
Suggested Creamer: Leaner Creamer Travel Packs
- Check out the food spots in advance
It’s easy and worth your time to look over the list of vendors scheduled to attend Stagecoach before you get there. Not only can you scope out all the yummy food options to try while you’re there, but you can also see the nutritional facts for each vendor and item on the menu beforehand so that you are informed on the healthiest options. This is especially important if you have dietary restrictions, as not all vendors will be able to provide you meals that can comply with your needs. No one wants to scour the festival grounds looking for food while their favorite artist is playing. Save yourself time, energy, and stress by making a list of healthy vendors beforehand.
- Wear comfy shoes
There’s no getting around it – Stagecoach is a time you’ll want to look your best. That being said, it is NOT the time to break in your new cowboy boots, seeing as blisters and sore feet are the last thing that you will want while walking miles a day. Make sure to break your shoes in BEFORE the festival starts, or wear shoes that are already broken in to ensure comfort. Converse, Vans, and Nikes are always a good choice – or comfy cowboy boots that are already molded to your feet.
- Bring non-perishable snacks
If you’re camping, this is a no brainer. But even if you’re staying at a hotel and have access to a fridge, you should still stock up on food for once you’re on festival grounds. Bringing your own snacks into the festival makes sure you won’t find yourself munching on unhealthy temptations like ice cream or nachos once you’re inside. Non-perishable snacks are great because they can withstand high temperatures, are easy to transport, and can be a nutrient-dense and healthy way to fuel your body. My favorite festival treats include goji berries, almonds, and KIND bars. It is important to note that Stagecoach does not allow glass once inside, so you may want make sure to store your food in plastic baggies rather than glass containers.
Suggested snack: Viva Naturals Goji Berries
- Don’t stop your workouts
No excuses! Just because you don’t have access to your normal gym or exercise space doesn’t mean that you should skip working out. Workouts that you can do with little to no equipment are readily available on Youtube and Pinterest. Even a 20 minute workout is better than nothing. So do a little internet searching (search bodyweight workouts) – or use the workout below and get your grind on wherever you’re staying!
- Utilize refillable water bottles
Trust me – you will thank yourself for bringing a refillable water bottle. Even if you are at a festival without blazing hot temperatures, the amount of walking you will be doing is bound to work up a thirst. The price for a water bottle in Stagecoach is $2 each, but water refill stations are free. My favorite way to pack water with me wherever I go is to use a refillable Camelback Hydration Pack, which is a backpack that holds its own supply of water. It holds way more water than a normal bottle, so I spend less time refilling and more time dancing along to my favorite bands, and since it doubles as a backpack I can store my phone, credit cards, and anything else I need to bring.
Suggested Refillable bottle: Camelback Rogue Hydration
- Apply sunscreen
If there is one tip I hope you’ll follow on this list, it’s this one. Sunscreen is so important regardless of if the weather-- If the festival takes place outdoors, you should be wearing it. Sunburns and skin damage can take place even in overcast weather, especially if you’re going to be outside for hours at a time. Try something that’s broad-spectrum and water-resistant, with an SPF over 30. Make sure you bring a non-aerosol sunscreen, like a lotion or stick sunscreen, as Stagecoach does not allow aerosol types inside.
Suggested sunscreen: Coppertone Oil Free Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30
