Just into my 50's now, and while I don't currently play in a band, or have any major back issues, my intention is to get back to playing gigs again which maybe a good couple of years off. As I'm not going to get younger or fitter, and also built like Mr. Bean, I decided recently to get the lightest cabs I could afford as a bit of forward planning. 2 x 17kg Laneys which just so happened to be the cabs I wanted a few years ago but couldn't afford at the time. For me cabs are the biggest hassle when it comes to moving/ carrying stuff about.
My bass is a little over 9.5lbs, and found I was able to play for a good couple of hours or more at practice with a band I was with for a while last year with no problems. I will only consider getting a lighter bass if I should I develop back issues. My current work involves a lot of moving around so am always getting gentle exercise anyway. If anything, I have always suffered a bit with my knees. I can get down but takes me bloody ages to get back up again!
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