Since almost a century, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular has been among the most cherished holiday customs. The Radio City Rockettes are the show’s star performers. The dancers in the New York City troupe are renowned for their red lips and high kicks, but they also work one of the hardest jobs in entertainment.
Here are the 5 fitness secrets from the Radio City Rockettes.
1. They practice for six days a week for six hours each day leading up to the Christmas Spectacular.
About six weeks before to the show’s opening weekend, the cast members’ demanding work begins. To prepare for the demands of the show, the dancers practice six (or more) hours each day, six days per week. Because the performances themselves are extremely difficult, despite the fact that they appear effortless up there: According to CBS News, in order to make up for their bulky costumes, you’d need to attend five or six barre lessons in a row while wearing body weights.
2. They engage in cross-training to stay strong during the off-season; some even work as teachers.
The Rockettes workout in various ways to stay strong and in shape while they’re not practicing exact choreography. One Rockette told PEOPLE Now that they kind of do their own unique stuff, including barre courses, spin classes, working out at the gym, and doing cardio.
3. Often, a Rockette’s day begins with a hearty breakfast.
A substantial breakfast is vital to the Rockettes because it gives them the energy they need to get through long rehearsal or performance days.
Of course, each dancer has a different go-to. According to Grooms, she begins each day with a toasted everything bagel topped with pepper jack cheese, avocado, and a Starbucks iced coffee.
4. In fact, maintaining their power and stamina throughout the day depends on eating adequate food.
It’s essential that they eat enough throughout the day to maintain their vitality. They consume more food than the typical person. They may consume protein and carbohydrates throughout the day, and treats are crucial. In fact, some dancers claim it might be difficult to consume enough calories to give them the energy they require throughout the day (which, after all, is what calories do).
Women frequently eat at the theater or at the wholesome fast-casual eatery The Little Beet between performances. Snyder’s lunch might consist of a cheese stick, some trail mix, some hard-boiled eggs, and some pretzels with peanut butter. Many dancers also rely on whole-grain bread and peanut butter sandwiches for a balance of good fat and carbohydrates.
5. They also may power nap between shows.
They have 90 minutes until the next performance after the curtain has closed. They have a catered lunch upstairs, where they typically eat turkey sandwiches so I can get my carbs. After that, they rest for 20 minutes.
The majority of the women do make an effort to get eight hours of sleep each night to rejuvenate and help with muscle recovery, but occasionally, a quick nap during the day is required. Make time for a nap in between performances if they are unable to get a full night’s sleep.
