So, as a few of you might know, I am a burlesque performer based in Brooklyn, NY. Tonight, I have a show to do and I thought I might share some tips that explain how I get ready and prepare so I can do my best.

LONG TERM:

1. PRACTICE!!! - This is obvious, but as SOON as you hear that you’ve got a gig coming up, decide on your music and work out your routine. This gives you plenty of time to practice so you won’t slip up and so you’ll get the maximum amount of tips.

2. Exercise helps - Try to work out at least once a week and focus on both cardio and muscle training. Cardio burns fat and muscle training creates tone. Try to walk rather than take public transit because this hones your leg and butt muscles which are VERY important when stripping. A toned stomach isn’t mandatory, but at least try to reduce any ‘overhang’.

3. Clothing choices - When picking a costume for burlesque, make sure you choose clothing that can be removed easily without much stumbling or effort. If you aren’t going to take off a particular item of clothing in your routine, then it can be as stuck on as you like. Also, layers!!! Dress in layers, it makes the performance more interesting for the viewers because you have more ways to play with them and tease them.

DAY OF:

1. Hydrate - Make sure to drink lots of water throughout the day but DO NOT CHUG. If you sip water, it’ll flush out any nastiness in your body and keep you looking fit and clean, but of you chug water, it gives you a bloated belly. Gatorade also is a good idea because it can hydrate at an even faster rate. I would suggest using a combination of the two (not at the same time, of course)

2. Choose your foods - Avoid or reduce salts and carbs and gravitate towards leafy greens and protein. Salts and carbs cause bloat and make you look flabby and less tight while proteins are nourishing and burn off quickly and leafy greens give you vitamins so you can retain energy. Needless to say, no desserts or dairy.

3. Rest up - Do NOT use this day as extra crunch time for a workout. Just keep your blood flowing a bit and make sure you take it easy. If you tire yourself out, you won’t have as much energy when it really counts during your performance.

4. Hygiene - Nobody likes a stinky stripper. SHIT, SHOWER, SHAVE!!!

5. Don’t get bummed - If you don’t get a ton of tips, don’t sweat it. There’s always next time! :)