Mosh pits are a staple at any good concert. The headbanging, the thrashing, and yes, even some punching. For some people, the mosh pit is a highlight of the concert experience, but for others it is just a nuisance when trying to enjoy seeing your heroes onstage. This article is for the second group.
So, your favorite artist is coming to town and you want to know how to survive, or avoid the mosh pit. Here are a few suggestions.
1. Hug the Barrier - The most coveted position at any concert is the spot right in front of the band. This position offers several benefits to those who wish to avoid the mosh pit.
First, most "hardcore" moshing happens a few rows back from the front, so this spot will allow you to avoid the big circle pits or walls of death.
Second, it gives you something to hold on to. When you are right on the barrier, you can better hold your position. While the crowd swells around you, you can remain firmly anchored on the barrier.
Third, you can breathe. In a large, active crowd, it is easy to fill your lungs with hot, humid air. Being in the front allows you to take advantage of the big pocket of cool air between the stage and the barrier. In a 4+ hour long concert, this advantage can be a lifesaver.
2. Get to the Venue Early - Most serious concertgoers show up at least an hour early, but depending on the size of the venue, you may want to show up even earlier. Most large venues attract line campers who want to claim the coveted barrier real estate. If you go 2 to 3 hours hours early, maybe even earlier, you can make sure to get in first to claim a strategic position.
Getting to the venue early also allows you to scout a little bit. You can check out the merch, maybe buy a drink, and claim your spot before the hordes show up. Win, win, win.
3. Get a Seat - Though most people like to be up close and personal with the band, maybe a better option is getting a seat. They usually cost a little bit more, but if you don't want to worry about the pit, reserved seating may be the way to go.
Some smaller venues don't offer seating, but there are other options. If you hang to the back of the pit, you usually are dealing with a much tamer crowd and you aren't going to be packed together quite so closely. This gives you some freedom to take a break to go to the bathroom, get a drink, or maybe catch an opener signing autographs at the merch table.
