By:  Thaddeus W Johnson
C 2011 Thaddeus W Johnson
Website:  http://www.beginnerdrumsetlessons.com

5 GREAT BENEFITS OF PLAYING THE DRUM SET

Who would have thought that there would be benefits to playing the drum set aside of
just having fun.  But as you will soon find out, playing the drums can be beneficial both
mentally and physically.  Let us begin by acknowledging that the drum set is a unique
instrument in itself, comprising of many different components of instrumentation.  The
kit is played with both hands and feet simultaneously or independently.  For some this
can be quite difficult to play though with the right instruction, anyone can discover how
easy it is to get around the set.  So, let's get to what the benefits are from playing this
instrument.

Cognitive Thinking

Granted, learning just about any musical instrument can be good for cognitive thinking
though the drums are one of the few instruments that is played with all limbs, demanding
full mental capacity.  Memory, judgment, perception and reasoning all have a big part in
the mental process in any execution applied to the drum set.  Whether you are learning
how to hold your drumsticks, reading sheet music (while playing), performing a solo or
even counting the beat in your head while playing, the mental attributes which were
mentioned above, are put into motion.  One can say by playing the drums, you are actually
"multi-tasking".  The ability in being adept by using this instrument can make certain daily
tasks less arduous. 

Relieves stress and Increases Energy

Feeling stressed or tired?  Play the drum set!  This instrument is excellent in relieving
stress because it allows you to transfer anxious, nervous and uncontrollable energy
through tapping and beating.  A good 30 minutes to an hour of pounding on the drums,
with or without music, can significantly lower stress levels and high blood pressure. 

The added plus in lowering the stress levels is the upswing of increased energy.  As you
transfer the unproductive energy to the drums, it is being replaced with energy to help
balance your heart, mind and body.

Coordination and Ambidexterity

As mentioned before, the drum set requires the use of all of the limbs.  Both hands as
well as both feet should be able to perform the same technique…it's not a must but a plus.
If you are finding a limb more dominant than the other, playing the drums gives you the
opportunity to strengthen the weak one.  Through practice you will find that in time you
an execute any exercise easily with either limb.

Having trouble dancing?  Improve your lack of coordination by playing the drums. 
Counting is crucial to playing which helps you to stay in time.  Just drumming with the
simple count of 1-2-3-4, can help with coordination and possibly other areas where there
may be a lack of rhythm.

Posture

This is an area that is pretty much overlooked by many drummers, pro and amateur
alike, which I find so important to anyone sitting for an extended amount of time.  I've
seen many drummers hunched over their kit.  It looks like they're really getting into their
playing though it has to be hard on the back.  I stress that it is important to sit correctly,
spine erect and shoulders rolled back and chest positioned outwardly instead of inward. 
Along with a comfortable throne (drum seat), this will promote relaxed seating for extended
play and no back pain.

Freedom of Expression

Open the doors for creativity!  There is nothing more exciting than the empowerment of
expressing your talent by beating on drumheads and crashing cymbals.  When you are
behind the set, it is your time to let the beat take to you to a place where you feel alive
and driven.  The drums are the pulse of the heart…keep it beating!

In conclusion with all that has been said, if you are wanting to acquire a drum set, whether
acoustic, electronic or a practice pad set, there are quite a few to choose from.  Prices vary
with each drum merchant though I highly recommend the one I purchase from, Same Day Music. 
They have great products, deals and ratings.  Take advantage of these great benefits also. 
Happy drumming!

By:  Thaddeus W Johnson
C 2011 Thaddeus W Johnson
Website:  http://www.beginnerdrumsetlessons.com