During this time of year concerts are everywhere. A lot of metal bands tour during fall and with metal-heads come mosh pits. The last time you went to a show it was likely that there was a clearing full of body-slamming, circle-dancing fans releasing aggression as they slam-danced to their favorite metal band. It takes a lot of courage to enter the pit, as it can be dangerous, but there are some rules.
Some of theses rules are common sense. Contrary to some people’s beliefs mosh pits were not created to hurt people — although in many cases people can get hurt. Physically hitting people is not a good idea because the person throwing punches will always be outnumbered. Furthermore, copping a feel on a fellow mosher is bad etiquette and if caught, the pervert will probably get a beat down.
Photo Illustration Loren Morris
Although pits can be fun, they can be extremely dangerous. Knowing what your are getting into is important. If you don’t want to be in the pit, don’t stand in the crowd center stage before a metal group starts their set. Recognize that it is highly likely that sweat, saliva and maybe even blood will get everywhere and be aware of it. While the objective of the mosh pit is to make physical contact without getting hurt it certainly does happen.
Be sure to wear the right clothing. Don’t buy a tour T-shirt before a band’s set and wear it into the pit. As stated, blood, sweat and saliva are likely to ruin the newly purchased threads so wear clothes appropiate for this kind of activity.
Some moshers do not have to get physical in order to participate. Stand at the side of the mosh pit and act as shape holder of the circle — this can also be fun. Shoving and pushing happens around this area almost more than in the pit itself. Know your surroundings when going to a concert with a likelihood of mosh pits or “hardcore dancing.” Fans that choose not to involve themselves in the pit should stay away from the middle of the floor because this area is where pits form.
Mosh pits are about having fun and sharing energy with fellow fans and performing bands. Pits can be dangerous but most of the time there are moshers who look out for others’ well-being and safety. Remember to keep fists and elbows to yourselves or it is possible to end up on the other end of a real beat down.