Music Fest Survival Kit

The unofficial kickoff of the summer season is here. Memphis in May begins this weekend and with it comes music, food, drinks, and a test of self control. With all the entertainment, friends, and food your diet and fitness goals might be the furthest from your mind. Instead of throwing all that hard work out the window party smarter with this quick guide.

When it comes to the music festival be prepared for loud music and plenty of opportunities to indulge in a few calorie dense food and beverages.

First off, DON'T forget earplugs. The average concert can produce decibel readings up to and exceeding 100db. This is the equivalent to having a blender or motorcycle going off next to you. In less than 8 hours tinnitus, a ringing in the ears, can manifest indicating damage to the ears. You only have one set of ears be sure to take care of them. Ear plugs are cheap, but hearing aids are not.

As for the beverage department be conscious of the drinks you order. Every gram of alcohol has 7 calories, that is the second highest calorie dense food right behind fat with 9 calories. If you intend to partake in a few drinks try to limit any that use a sugary mixer such as soda or fruit juices.These sweet mixers only add calories and aid in dehydration. Finally, be sure to stay hydrated by keeping a bottle of water close by.

And last but not least, with unusually sunny weather predicted this weekend, bring out the sunscreen. SPF of 15 or higher and water resistant is the current recommendation by the Skin Cancer Foundation. Apply often as one application per day is not sufficient protection.


Below is the list of what to bring. 

• Water Bottle 
• Sunscreen
• Bug Spray (It's Memphis and the Mosquitos will find you)
• Sunglasses
• Hand Sanitizer
• Couple Band-aids
• Bag no larger than 12x12in
  

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