Champions in Training: What It Takes to Be a Spartan

NASHUA, NH - It's competition season and the Spartans Drum & Bugle Corps are in top form, working their way to the Drum Corps International World Championships in Illinois, coming up in August.

Talk about hard-corps training.

I stopped by a recent practice session, held in a remote corner of the Pheasant Lane Mall parking lot. It was one of those days of hot humid weather that led to a sudden downpour, followed by a rainbow. 

I arrived early and soon realized that a practice session does not involve a lot of instrumentals, at least not off the bat. Corps members snap in to action, unloading the equipment and setting up their stations. The first hour or more was spent on exercise and conditioning, as the Spartans splintered off into their various divisions – drum line, color guard and horns – and launched into a series of rigorous physical exercises that included running, planks, and core strengthening. They also focus relentlessly on posture and timing – the kinds of things that elevate a drum and bugle corps from adequate to impeccable.

By the time they picked up their instruments, it was about time for me to move on to the next assignment, but I thought a compilation video of some of the action would help the public understand what it takes to be the award-winning Nashua New Hampshire Spartans Drum & Bugle Corps. 

I walked away completely impressed with their focus, dedication, professionalism and high spirits.

Before you go, make sure you watch the video, and then click this link to read how you can help Move the Spartans a Mile on their way to the World Championship.

About the Spartans, from their website:

Founded in 1955, The Spartans have, over the years, attained multiple Drum Corps International gold medals. The corps is a five-time winner of the DCI Open Class gold medal (1997, 1998, 2004, 2005, and 2007).