Abstract
PURPOSE: This research aimed to identify how the marching arts’ access to medical coverage affects an individual’s success in the activity. Medical coverage in the marching arts varies greatly between the levels that exist within the activity. Marching bands’ physical demands rival traditional sports, with a longer season and fewer resources. Despite the lack of coverage, the incidence of injury remains a challenge for competing groups. METHODS: A survey was conducted to ask individuals about their experiences with their band’s medical staff and any injuries or conditions they may have dealt with. Participants were at least 18 years old and participated in any combination of band level: high school, collegiate, Drum Corps Associates or International, or indoor. RESULTS: Responses were analyzed for descriptive statistics; open-ended responses were analyzed qualitatively for themes of the band’s environment and the overall success in the members’ recovery. The survey yielded 45 responses; 29 respondents experienced an injury or condition that impacted their marching career before or during marching, and 28 respondents reported access to medical coverage. CONCLUSION: The necessity of medical coverage in the marching arts is dependent on the level. Members marching higher levels or more successful bands may experience more injuries but a higher quality of care in comparison to lower levels/bands. This research analyzed previous experiences, it did not aim to answer decisively on the marching arts’ need for medical coverage.
Recommended Citation
Maszera S, Torres L, Gardin FA. A Survey of Medical Coverage in the Marching Arts. The Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice. 2026 Sep 01;24(3), Article 8.
