For many Brisbane locals, the EKKA holiday is a highlight of the year. A mid-week day off, showbags, rides, fireworks, farm animals, and the chance to soak up a bit of nostalgia – what’s not to love?
But while the EKKA is a lot of fun, it can also be surprisingly tough on your body. Long days on your feet, hours of walking, carrying kids or showbags, standing in queues, and eating foods your body isn’t used to can all add up. Add in disrupted routines and less rest, and it’s no surprise that many people feel sore, stiff, or run down after EKKA week.
Whether you’re heading to the showgrounds, enjoying the public holiday at home, or using the break to catch up on life admin, here’s how to look after yourself during the EKKA holiday – and why it’s a great time to check in with your physio if your body needs some extra support.
Why EKKA Week Can Take a Toll on Your Body
EKKA week is rarely a “normal” week. Even if you’re not attending the show, routines tend to change – and your body notices.
Common physical stressors during EKKA week include:
- Long periods of walking or standing, often on hard surfaces
- Wearing unsupportive footwear for convenience or comfort
- Carrying heavy bags or children for extended periods
- More sitting and driving due to altered work schedules
- Less sleep from late nights or busy days
- Reduced exercise or movement quality, followed by sudden bursts of activity
For people already managing aches, injuries, or persistent pain, these changes can easily trigger flare-ups.
1. Wear Shoes Your Body Will Thank You For
It’s tempting to prioritise convenience or style when heading to the EKKA, but footwear matters more than you think.
Supportive shoes can help:
- Reduce foot and heel pain
- Minimise knee, hip, and lower back strain
- Improve comfort during long walking days
If you’re prone to plantar heel pain, shin splints, knee pain, or back discomfort, this is not the time to break in brand-new shoes or rely on thongs or flat sandals.
Physio tip: If foot pain is something you regularly deal with, EKKA week is often when symptoms flare. A physiotherapist can assess your foot mechanics and help you find strategies to stay comfortable during busy periods.
2. Pace Yourself (Even When There’s So Much to See)
The EKKA can easily turn into a full-day endurance event – especially with kids in tow.
Try to:
- Take regular seated breaks
- Alternate walking with rest
- Avoid rushing from one end of the showgrounds to the other
- Listen to early signs of fatigue or soreness
Pushing through pain may feel manageable in the moment, but it often leads to stiffness or flare-ups later that day or the next morning.
3. Stay Hydrated (Show Food Doesn’t Count)
Between showbags, fairy floss, dagwood dogs, and chips, hydration is often overlooked.
Dehydration can contribute to:
- Muscle cramps
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Increased perception of pain
Aim to drink water regularly throughout the day – especially if it’s warm or you’re spending hours walking.
4. Be Kind to Your Back When Carrying Bags and Kids
Showbags get heavier fast – and so do tired children.
To protect your back:
- Spread weight across both sides of your body
- Swap arms regularly when carrying children
- Avoid twisting while holding heavy loads
- Take advantage of lockers or prams where possible
If back pain is a recurring issue for you, EKKA week often exposes underlying strength or movement limitations that physio can help address.
5. Keep Some Gentle Movement in Your Week
Even if your normal exercise routine is disrupted, gentle movement still matters.
Simple ideas:
- A short walk the morning after EKKA
- Gentle stretching for hips, calves, and back
- Light mobility work instead of intense workouts
Movement helps reduce stiffness, improves circulation, and supports recovery – especially after long, active days.
6. Expect Flare-Ups (And Don’t Ignore Them)
It’s common for existing injuries or pain conditions to flare during busy weeks like EKKA.
You might notice:
- Increased back or neck stiffness
- Knee or hip pain after walking
- Foot pain returning
- General aches that linger longer than usual
A flare-up doesn’t mean damage – but ignoring it often prolongs recovery.
Early physiotherapy support can help:
- Settle symptoms faster
- Identify what triggered the flare
- Adjust load and movement safely
- Prevent short-term pain becoming long-term issues
7. Use the Public Holiday to Look After Yourself
The EKKA holiday isn’t just about the show – it’s also an opportunity to do something positive for your health.
Many people use the day off to:
- Book appointments they’ve been putting off
- Address niggles before they worsen
- Start a plan for better movement or pain management
Physiotherapy isn’t just for injuries – it’s about helping your body cope with life, busy weeks included.
How Physiotherapy Can Help After EKKA Week
If EKKA week leaves you sore, stiff, or flared up, physiotherapy can help you:
- Reduce pain and inflammation
- Improve mobility and strength
- Address movement patterns contributing to pain
- Build resilience for future busy periods
Whether it’s foot pain from walking, back pain from standing and carrying, or general stiffness from disrupted routines, targeted physiotherapy can make a real difference.
Don’t Let EKKA Week Linger in Your Body
A bit of soreness after EKKA might be expected – but ongoing pain doesn’t have to be.
If you’re feeling stiff, sore, or noticing a flare-up that’s not settling, now is a great time to book an appointment and get on top of it early.
👉 Book an appointment at our clinic to keep your body moving well, not just during EKKA week – but long after the showbags are gone.
Enjoy the EKKA, look after yourself, and give your body the support it deserves 🎠💙
