The question of whether K-Pop giants, BTS, drink coffee or not is one that has been fiercely debated among their fan base. Many wonder if their impressive stage presence, energy, and enthusiasm are fueled by caffeine in any way. Indeed, given their rigorous tour schedules, it is no surprise that speculation exists as to how BTS copes with the demands of constant travel and interviews.
Studies researching the effects of caffeine intake on physical and mental performance have returned mixed results, with some showing a temporary cognitive boost and others showing no difference whatsoever. While BTS has not come forward and declared their opinion on consuming caffeine, many fans note that the group’s tireless touring and promotional activities could be evidence of some sort of stimulation from another source.
Experts in fatigue management believe that what BTS needs most during their hectic schedules is not caffeine, but rather adequate hydration and a balanced diet. Hydration and nutrition are going to be key in providing the energy they need to keep going when the going gets hard. Another important factor in the fight against fatigue is the power of positive thinking and accessing the right mindset irrespective of circumstance. It stands to reason that if BTS were to look into supplementing their physical needs with caffeine, it would make sense for them to opt for natural rather than synthetic sources in order to minimise any health risks.
Data reveals that what little caffeine the group does consume is often in the form of natural sources such as matcha tea and ginger, ingredients that are commonly found in South Korean diets. In addition, clinical experts seem to agree that while ingesting caffeine in moderation can be beneficial to mental alertness, the long-term effects are yet to be studied. Therefore, unregulated and careless consumption should be avoided to prevent potential health complications.
Come showtime, savvy BTS fans have noticed that the energy and enthusiasm of the group doesn’t have a chemically induced appearance; it feels entirely organic, carefully cultivated by the power of positivity and general good health. While the verdict on caffeine is still out, keen followers of BTS are more likely to look to the group’s lifestyle choices for clues as to how they manage so many grueling tasks with such charm and grace. Despite the ever-mounting evidence, the mystery as to how BTS maintains their electrifying energy continues.
The Pre-Gig Routine
BTS’ pre-gig routine relies heavily on rest, pacing and hydration. After a long flight, the group will check into their hotel, unpack, and then typically take a warm bath before settling in for an early night. In the morning, they will typically drink plenty of water, eat breakfast, and then set aside time to practice. The boys will gather together to go over the choreography, lyrics and structure of the set list one last time before they take to the stage.
It is clear that BTS puts a lot of effort into the preparation of their shows and it obviously pays off. Stretches are always included and the boys will take some time to energize themselves mentally and physically before they prepare to perform. However, on the rare occasions that energy drinks do appear, caffeinated or otherwise, special attention is paid to ensuring that the group keeps refreshed and hydrated.
Robust Nutrition
Working with a nutritionist, BTS has formulated a holistic and custom diet and nutrition plan to ensure their bodies and minds are in sync during their highly-intensive schedules. Instead of opting for snacks, the group stick with a healthy, balanced diet that includes light, healthy soups and smoothies. While the specifics of the group’s nutrition plan remain unknown, it is clear that the members are conscious about the food that they put into their bodies.
In addition, the group spends equal time to refuel their mental energy as well. Concerts require every single member to be on their toes, and so, it is important to maintain a certain balance between mental and physical stamina. BTS spends some time each day jotting down positive affirmations, reading inspiring books, or listening to motivational podcasts.
Supplements and Vitamins
As part of their diet plan, BTS is known to take health supplements and vitamins in order to maintain their energy, focus, and physical endurance. These supplements help the group perform and focus for longer periods of time on concert days and also help them handle the stress that comes with such a hectic schedule.
They also take essential vitamins, minerals and amino acids that are necessary for general health, particularly to help keep their immune systems in top condition and ward off colds and viruses. The group is also known to skip caffeine and opt for natural energy drinks such as ginger and ginseng instead. Drinking plenty of water is essential for them during the day and they are known to take in more than the recommended daily amount.
Additional Treatments
When it comes to physical therapy and rehabilitation, BTS relies heavily on traditional Eastern modalities such as cupping, stretching and acupuncture to remain in optimal condition. Group members are known to invest time and money into curated one-on-one treatments that target problem areas and help improve their flexibility and physical fitness. Aside from physical wellness, each of the members also have their own way of achieving mental and emotional wellbeing, like taking time out to meditate and listening to soothing music.
The most recent developments in the science of fatigue are beginning to take into account the many facets of mental, emotional and physical wellbeing in an effort to combat the effects of burning the candle at both ends. Today, many believe that one of the secrets to surviving an intensive lifestyle such as that of BTS is to maintain a balanced nutritional and physical regimen. With this in mind, it is likely that BTS has developed a holistic lifestyle that contains all of the components necessary to stay energized and on top of their game.
Good Management Practices
As far as their management team is concerned, they also put emphasis on exhausting all available means to ensure the group’s well-being. As such, they are often seen pushing for rests during the day and staying close to the group’s schedule. They also ensure that the group selects healthy snacks to munch on whenever possible and that their days are supplemented with the necessary fluids.
BTS’ management team is also credited for technological advancements that allow the group to stay completely in sync with each other during their performances. A backstage monitor provides them with real-time information on the state of their team’s energy during the show, reveals any minor changes in the choreography and assists with emotional alignment. Together, these measures prevent any possibility of fatigue affecting their performance.
Unplugged Time
Amid the non-stop flurry of appearances, interviews and concerts, BTS is known to have scheduled breaks throughout the year. Those breaks, however, come in various forms. For example, Jimin is known to enjoy burying himself in books while with RM it is movies. At times they are seen playing video games or simply grabbing a bite to eat in the service of relaxation and rest. Moreover, BTS have also been spotted taking time out to simply enjoy nature, visits to the beach and bicycling in nearby locations.
The group are also known to engage in guided meditation, yoga and aromatherapy activities. They recognize that the power of relaxation is essential during times of intense stress and heavy workloads, and so, their management team encourages them to unplug from their duties and take a short break from their hectic schedules.
Sherpa Support
Given the immensely demanding nature of their work, it is no surprise that BTS has employed ‘coach-like’ figures that act as confidantes and sherpas, helping them cope with the difficult balancing act of their life. By providing the group with much needed moral and psychological support, these individuals have been credited for providing the boys with the drive and discipline needed to stay focused on the task at hand.
These ‘sherpas’ are responsible for nurturing and pushing the group’s spirit, keeping a close eye for any signs of fatigue and, whenever possible, providing quick solutions. From spiritual guidance to weathering difficult post-show blues, it is clear that the group knows how to differentiate between mental and physical exhaustion, and they are not afraid to seek out support when they truly need it.
