Backstreet Boys Reveal Pre-Show Routine Changes Over 30 Years

The iconic boy band shares how their concert preparation has evolved with age and experience.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Backstreet Boys, consisting of AJ McLean, Kevin Richardson, Howie Dorough, Nick Carter, and Brian Littrell, have opened up about how their pre-show routine has changed over the course of their 30-year career. The group now focuses more on stretching, meditation, and weight training to prepare their bodies for the intense choreography, a stark contrast from their early touring days when they barely stretched. They also pray before each show, asking to avoid injuries like ankle sprains or Achilles heel issues. Despite the physical changes that come with age, the band's unity and bond remain as strong as ever as they continue to perform for their devoted fans.

Why it matters

The Backstreet Boys' candid discussion about their evolving pre-show routine provides a glimpse into the realities of being a veteran performing group. As they've matured, the band has had to adapt their preparation methods to maintain their high-energy performances and protect their bodies from the rigors of touring. This story resonates with fans who have grown up alongside the Backstreet Boys and highlights the group's resilience and commitment to delivering the best show possible, even as they navigate the challenges that come with age.

The details

The Backstreet Boys, who are currently in residency at the Sphere in Las Vegas, shared with PEOPLE magazine that their pre-show routine now involves much more stretching and focused preparation compared to their early touring days. AJ McLean revealed that he now does a "complete quiet stretch" and light weightlifting to limber up before performances, a stark contrast to the group's previous lack of pre-show stretching. Nick Carter also noted that the band now prays specifically for avoiding injuries like ankle sprains or Achilles heel issues, reflecting their heightened awareness of the physical toll of their energetic choreography after decades of performing.

  • The Backstreet Boys have been performing together for over 30 years, since the group first formed in 1993.
  • The band is currently in the midst of a residency at the Sphere in Las Vegas.

The players

Backstreet Boys

An American boy band consisting of AJ McLean, Kevin Richardson, Howie Dorough, Nick Carter, and Brian Littrell. The group formed in 1993 and has become one of the best-selling boy bands of all time.

AJ McLean

A member of the Backstreet Boys, known for his distinctive look and vocal range.

Nick Carter

A member of the Backstreet Boys, known for his lead vocals and as the youngest member of the group.

Howie Dorough

A member of the Backstreet Boys, known for his smooth vocals and as one of the founding members of the group.

Kevin Richardson

A member of the Backstreet Boys, known for his powerful vocals and as one of the older members of the group.

Brian Littrell

A member of the Backstreet Boys, known for his high-pitched vocals and as the cousin of Nick Carter.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I think everybody's different. I know for me personally, I try to just have a complete quiet stretch, I do a quick little meditation, and I've got some weights that I'll do a little bit of weightlifting and stretching and whatnot.”

— AJ McLean (PEOPLE)

“We pray that we don't fall, we pray we don't break an ankle, we get the lyrics, pray we don't pop [an] Achilles heel.”

— Nick Carter (PEOPLE)

“You don't take moments like this for granted. We've been fortunate to perform all over the world, and coming together in Times Square to shoot a Super Bowl commercial with T-Mobile was a pretty surreal experience. Seeing the response from the fans and feeling that love year after year is a beautiful thing.”

— Kevin Richardson (PEOPLE)

What’s next

The Backstreet Boys are expected to continue their Las Vegas residency at the Sphere, delighting fans with their classic hits and energetic performances.

The takeaway

The Backstreet Boys' evolution in their pre-show routine showcases the resilience and adaptability of veteran performers. As they've grown older, the band has prioritized physical preparation and injury prevention to maintain their high-energy concerts, while still preserving the unity and bond that has made them one of the most successful boy bands of all time.