5 Tips to Increase Drumming Endurance

It's one thing to learn a beat, quite another to play it at tempo.  My tips for increasing drumming endurance:

1)  Stretch before you play. 

Stretch your forearms, shoulders, hands, back, waist, torso and legs.  Being looser and more relaxed will help you avoid "getting tight" and cramping. 

2)  Breath / Chant / Sing While you Play

Connect your breath with the beat.  Sing the chorus of the song, sing a simple chant in sync with the beat.  (If you are timid, sing softly to yourself.)  Connecting your breath with the music naturally takes the pressure OFF your hands and forearms. 

3)  Play softer.

Don't pound your drum!  When you start to feel tired or tight, lower your volume and LISTEN WITH MORE INTENT to the musicians around you.  Soften the hands and bring down the volume.

4)  Keep arms,  shoulders & spine loose and fluid.

Constriction stops the flow.  Movement releases it.  When you start to feel tight/tired, take a big deep breath, rotate your head & shoulders, round the spine and soften the waist.  Music must move THROUGH your body, much like water flowing through a garden hose.  If the hose is kinked or wrapped around an obstacle, the water won't flow.  Rhythm is like water.  Your body is the hose.  Keep it loose and flowing.

5)  Play for dance classes.

Most communities have some type of African, Brazilian, or Cuban dance classes, with live drumming.  Most lead drummers will welcome beginning students to accompany class provided (1) they are competent to hold a simple rhythm with steady time and tone, and (2) they are sensitive people who respect the vibe of the dance class.   Playing a simple beat for 10-30 minutes, while listening to the lead drummer(s) and enjoying the profound connection with the dancers is a fantastic way to increase endurance.

I HOPE THESE TIPS HELP!!! 

Remember:  Drumming is a lifelong endeavor - don't rush it.  Good things take time....  "Progress, not Perfection."