Rod Stewart's Underwater Training: A Vocal Technique Revival

In a fascinating blend of music and science, legendary singer Rod Stewart has adopted underwater training techniques, reminiscent of advice from the iconic Frank Sinatra, to enhance his vocal performance. At 80 years old, Stewart continues to electrify audiences through his energetic performances and distinctive raspy voice. He disclosed in a recent interview with AARP magazine that swimming has become a crucial aspect of his fitness regimen, specifically mentioning underwater exercises aimed at improving his lung capacity.

Stewart's swimming routine involves diving into a pool to retrieve weighted bricks, a practice he claims is rooted in Sinatra's guidance: "Rod, the secret to being a great singer is having powerful lungs. Do lots of underwater swimming, where you hold your breath." This method is not merely anecdotal; scientific insights suggest a significant correlation between underwater training and respiratory health, particularly in aging individuals.

Dr. Rebecca Moseley-Morgan, Chair of Research at the British Voice Association, emphasized that age-related changes can impair respiratory function, leading to challenges in sustaining breath for long musical phrases. According to Dr. Moseley-Morgan, maintaining respiratory health through cardiovascular exercises, including swimming, can be beneficial. She stated, "The breath is the power source of the voice, so without it, singing is not possible."

Supporting this notion, Professor Monica McHenry, Director of the Speech and Voice Physiology Lab at New York Medical College, noted that underwater swimming could help individuals develop the ability to hold their breath, which may assist in tolerating the oxygen deprivation that occurs during singing. "The basis for holding a note is having enough air to keep the vocal folds vibrating as you sustain the note," she explained. Furthermore, Dr. Keir Philip from Imperial College London pointed out that professional singers and swimmers often exhibit superior lung function compared to the general population, suggesting that engaging in such activities could enhance lung capacity.

However, Dr. Philip cautioned against the widespread adoption of underwater training without medical advice, particularly for individuals with pre-existing health conditions. He stated, "There is reason to think these approaches might help, but there is definitely not sufficient evidence to advise people in general to use this approach."

While some singers, like Stewart, embrace this method, others, such as David Alacey, a noted Sinatra tribute performer, have found traditional techniques more effective. Alacey remarked, "I did try the underwater method but it didn’t work for me as I felt it distracted from the whole idea of singing. Working on the diaphragm felt much more effective."

As Stewart prepares for an upcoming performance at Glastonbury and a series of concerts across Europe and America, his commitment to fitness and vocal health remains evident. With over 40 shows scheduled for the year, the strategy of underwater training reflects a blend of artistry, personal experience, and scientific inquiry, illustrating the ongoing quest for vocal excellence in the face of aging. This revival of Sinatra's methods could pave the way for further research into the intersection of physical training and vocal performance, particularly as the music industry continues to evolve.

In conclusion, while the practice of underwater swimming may not be universally applicable for all singers, it underscores the importance of innovative approaches in maintaining vocal health. As Stewart himself stated, "I keep myself very fit"—a mantra that resonates with many artists striving to balance aging with the demands of performance. Future studies could further illuminate the potential benefits of such training methods, enhancing our understanding of respiratory health in the performing arts.