For me, bartending is more than just crafting the perfect cocktail; it’s a marathon of physical and mental endurance. With over a decade behind the bar, I’ve understood the critical importance of maintaining my health in this seemingly glamorous yet undeniably high-strain profession.
Key Insights for a Sustainable Bartending Career:
- Mastering Ambidexterity: Learning to use both hands minimizes the wear and tear from repetitive motions and boosts efficiency behind the bar. It’s a game-changer.
- Mindful Motion: Keeping my movements confined to a safe range while shaking cocktails has been crucial in avoiding injuries. It’s about working smarter, not harder.
- Balancing Efficiency and Well-being: Becoming adept with both hands has elevated my bartending game, enhancing my well-being and ability to deliver top-notch service.
The Often-Overlooked Physical Toll of Bartending:
The glamor of bartending masks the physical demands it places on us, akin to the repetitive strain seen in assembly line work. I’ve been there—nursing chronic pain, undergoing surgery and realizing the importance of technique and physical awareness.
It’s not just about making drinks; it’s about continuing to do what I love long-term.
Ambidexterity: An Unconventional Yet Effective Approach:
After a transformative conversation with Eric Castro, owner of Raised by Wolves, I embraced the challenge of using both hands in my craft. It wasn’t easy, but the benefits—less pain, increased longevity in the profession, and heightened efficiency—are undeniable.
It’s about making small changes that greatly impact our health and efficiency.
Shifting Industry Norms for Sustainability:
The wisdom I share reflects a broader need for a sustainable approach to bartending.
By prioritizing techniques that protect our health, we’re not just enhancing our immediate performance but ensuring we can continue doing what we love for years.
It’s about fostering a culture that values health as much as craft.
Final Thoughts:
Bartending is my passion, and I’m committed to sustainably enjoying the art of cocktail creation. Integrating health-conscious techniques is not only beneficial but essential for the future of our profession.
As we collectively embrace these practices, we can ensure that bartending remains a viable, fulfilling career path filled with the joy of innovation and service satisfaction.