Marching percussion is many things to many different people. It’s certainly a valued form of musical expression. It’s a great way to meet new people. It’s even an important tool for learning how to work with a group. One thing that many do not realize, though, is that marching band is a tremendous way to get some exercise. You might think of most musical experiences as mostly sedentary, but the world of marching drummers is one that requires incredible stamina and that builds more strength than you might imagine. If you want to bulk up and become stronger, the percussion may be for you.
If you stop for a moment to think about it, the connection between marching percussion and strength should be obvious. Marching drums are not light instruments – and drummers are meant not just to hold them, but rather to march in formation with them for a significant period of time. Given that the average practice session for a high school marching band tends to run for an hour or longer, this creates a sort of weight training session that even professionals might envy. Playing the drums requires a great deal of strength to be built up over time, but those who make it through the world of band practice often come out with better builds and a higher degree of physical prowess than their peers.
Playing drums, even if only in drum lessons, also helps to build up one’s stamina – another important part of strength training. The drums are a full body instrument, especially when playing something complex as the quad toms. Not only will your arms get quite the workout while you play, but your legs will be required to provide you with balance and stability so that you can hit each beat perfectly. The stamina that you develop while playing drums will not only help you to play longer, but translates over into sporting events and even daily life. A practiced drummer simply has a different definition of what it means to get tired than most of his or her peers.
In short, joining a drum line or a marching band is a fantastic way to hone your body and become stronger. You’ll gain not only the strength needed to lift, but the stamina to outlast any competitor in any field in which you may choose to participate in the future. Taking the time to learn how to play the instrument will bring you not only a new level of physical ability, but will help to give you the drive and determination that you will need to succeed in life. If you want to be stronger, consider playing the drums.
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