When you are learning to play the drums, practicing proper hand technique and building stamina are essential for taking your skills to the next level. One of the most effective ways to develop as a drummer is to develop a strong practice routine. A structured routine will help you focus on specific techniques and skills that will help you improve. Regular practice with beginner drum exercises is essential to making meaningful progress. You can incorporate a variety of exercises and techniques into your practice time. By focusing on different aspects of drumming when you practice, you will enjoy the variety while also expanding your skills. You can also incorporate key beginner drum exercises into your practice routine and see your progress over time, which can be a great motivator for new drummers.

Developing a Good Practice Routine for Learning to Play the Drums

A strong practice routine will help you improve your drumming skills and improve as a musician. A structured practice routine will help you stay focused, consistent, and motivated as you move through the beginning stages of learning how to play the drums. Check out this example of a practice routine for beginner drummers to develop skills and build endurance:  

Warm-Up

Kick off your practice routine with a solid warm-up that will help you loosen up your muscles and get your blood flowing. This is a great time to move through classic drum exercises for beginners at a slow tempo while focusing on your form.

Technique Exercises

Move into technique exercises that target areas you want to improve. For example, certain drum exercises can target hand control and coordination, two key elements of becoming a strong drummer. You can start with the basics before moving through to more complex patterns.

Song Practice

Whether you have a specific song in mind or a particular beat you want to master, you can benefit from a solid warm-up and basic exercises to get you primed. Turn on a metronome and practice drumbeats or songs to improve your skills.

Cool-Down

Finish your practice routine with a cool-down exercise with slow, quiet patterns that will help you relax and unwind.

Try These 5 Beginner Drum Exercises

Try these five beginner drum exercises to develop consistent habits, focus on specific techniques, and build endurance as a drummer.

Single-Stroke Rolls

Single-stroke rolls are a key exercise for beginner drummers that helps you develop hand control and endurance. This exercise involves alternating between your dominant and non-dominant hand in a continuous motion. Begin with a slow tempo and then gradually increase the speed as you get more comfortable. When practicing single-stroke rolls, you want to aim for a consistent sound and even stroke heights on both hands. Try the single stroke roll with four bars of eighth notes, then increase to four bars of sixteenth notes.

Double-Stroke Rolls

Double-stroke rolls take the previous exercise to the next level by playing two strokes with each hand. This exercise challenges you to maintain a consistent sound and even stroke height while also maintaining a steady beat. Focus on the technique and differences between your dominant and non-dominant hand as you try to keep your sticks parallel to the drumhead. Start with a slow tempo and gradually increase the speed by playing four bars of double strokes at the same tempo before you increase.

Paradiddles

Paradiddles are another fundamental rudiment for drummers and a great exercise for developing your control and dynamic range. A paradiddle consists of a pattern of four notes played in sequence, for example: “Right, Left, Right, Right. Left, Right, Left, Left.” The alternating sequence of the paradiddle encourages you to develop strength and coordination in both your dominant and non-dominant hands. You can practice different dynamics while playing paradiddles by accenting the first note or playing softly and gradually increasing in volume.

Flams

Flams are another great example of drum hand exercises for beginners to practice. A flam is made up of two notes played with both hands. The first note is a soft grace note, followed by a louder primary note. You will play the grace note quickly and softly before the primary note, which should have more volume and force. Practice flams with a metronome to help you maintain consistent timing and enhance your rhythm. 

Four-Way Coordination

Four-way coordination exercises help beginner drummers practice playing different rhythms and patterns with both their hands and feet at the same time. This type of coordination is essential for drummers of all ages and skill levels. You can begin by playing a basic beat with your hands before incorporating a different foot pattern. For example, you may begin with paradiddles using your hands while maintaining a bass drum pattern with your feet. As you get more comfortable with four-way coordination, you can try more complex patterns and increase the tempo.

FAQs for Beginner Drummers

Is it better to practice on a drum pad or a drum set?

Both practice pads and drum sets can help you improve your drumming skills. A practice pad is a more portable and cost-effective option for beginner drummers. You can take a practice pad with you wherever you go and practice basic drum exercises to help you build strength and endurance. Practicing on a drum set offers a more realistic experience and real-world experience. Beginner drummers can also learn how to better develop their timing and coordination by playing on a drum set. If possible, incorporating both a drum pad and a drum set into your practice routine will provide you with a variety of options as you learn and develop as a musician.

How many hours a day should I practice drums as a beginner?

As a beginner, it is important to start out with a practice routine that is manageable for you. You can gradually increase the time you spend practicing as your skills and stamina improve. Beginners may want to practice for 30 minutes to an hour a day a few times a week. When practicing, focus less on the amount of time you spend and more on proper techniques and consistency so you can build muscle memory. As you become more advanced, you will develop the strength and stamina to practice for longer periods of time.

Why do my hands hurt after practicing the drums?

It is common for beginners to experience some discomfort when learning to play the drums. Your muscles are learning new movements, and repetitive motions can put stress on your hands, wrists, and forearms. Practicing with proper technique can help minimize pain from playing. It is also important to take breaks and avoid playing through the pain.

Private Drum Lessons with Lessons In Your Home

Lessons In Your Home will pair you with a drum instructor near you for private drum lessons in the comfort of your own home. Our world-class teachers can talk to you about what to expect with drum lessons and help you develop a practice routine. Learn the proper technique and form for these beginner drum exercises and more with private drum lessons and personalized instruction from a highly knowledgeable and skilled teacher fully vetted by Lessons In Your Home. Our teachers provide private drum lessons that work with your schedule and offer guidance and feedback in a structured learning environment so you can improve as a drummer and musician.