What’s one thing that’s guaranteed to make a drummer extremely nervous?

Pain while drumming.

Has playing ever given you issues in your wrists, knees, back or neck? It shouldn’t.

While you might experience muscle tiredness from increasing the tempo of a song or exercise, it should feel like a good workout – not something that makes you wince.

Repetitive strain injuries are unfortunately super common with drummers. 68% of players in one study reported having at least one playing-related musculoskeletal disorder, which includes tendinitis and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Injuries shouldn’t be common. The more we know about proper technique and posture on the kit, and the more we’re in tune with our bodies, the better we’ll feel. And as drum technique guru Bruce Becker says, “take the path of least resistance” – because tension is your enemy.

Your mortal enemy.

The sooner you can figure out why something hurts, the lower your risk is for any kind of long-term damage.

Your grandmother was right

She always told you to sit up straight, and that’s one of many tips that’ll make sure your posture and positioning protects you on the drums.

Use these points as guidance when you’re drumming:

• Your seat should be high enough that your legs angle slightly downwards. Whatever feels the most comfortable is the angle that works best for you.
• Your legs should be relaxed, and your feet should sit comfortably on the pedals (like you’re driving a car).
• Your snare drum should be right between your legs.
• Your cymbals and toms should be in reach (you should never have to fully extend your arms to hit them).
• If something hurts, stop and re-evaluate what you’re doing. Don’t try and push through it.
• Take a few days or weeks off from playing if you need to.
  See a doctor if the pain continues.

And – like Granny said – sit up straight.