Back On The Throne: Drumming.

As I slowly reconnect with my previous world of being a touring drummer, I have developed a growing awareness of the physical demands of the instrument (especially as I age).

Over the past year I have increased my practice to prepare for the demands of this almost athletic journey. So, with this in mind, this week’s blog explores the links between drumming, exercise and the potential impact on mental health.

One study in particular - Energy expenditure in rock/pop drumming - investigated energy expenditure in rock/pop drumming and its potential classification as a form of physical exercise. While the primary focus of the paper was on the physiological aspects of drumming, such as calorie expenditure and cardiovascular benefits, its findings also have implications for mental health.

In their view, drumming can be considered moderate to vigorous physical activity, depending on intensity and duration. Under this lens, physical activity is widely associated with reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, improved mood, and better stress management. The act of drumming, therefore, may provide a therapeutic outlet for stress and emotional tension, aligning with evidence that rhythmic activities can promote relaxation and emotional expression.

Drumming involves immersive engagement, potentially fostering a 'flow state' that is linked to improved mental well-being and reduced rumination (although, I’m not sure I have ever experienced this mythical state in musicking – maybe that’s just me).

In group settings drumming also enhances social interaction to potentially provide a sense of belonging and community, crucial for mental health.

While the study primarily highlighted the physical benefits of drumming, its secondary implications suggest that regular participation could contribute positively to mental health, particularly through the mechanisms of physical activity, stress reduction, and social engagement.

In my view I find the physical act of drumming calming and emotionally regulating. There’s something about the repetitive nature of embodying a rhythm that’s quite grounding when engulfed in the practice room. Additionally, when I use a metronome or a click track there is almost an implicit sense of safety and scaffolding to explore the variants of these improvised expressive rhythms.

I am still not quite were I want to be, and where I was previously with my playing chops but it is slowly evolving as I re-enter the field. Reconnecting with my drumming on a personal level has been a warming return. The performance element is another matter and far more complex!

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Adam Ficek hosts  'Tonic Music' a monthly show on Totally Wired Radio. Each show features Adam spinning the finest in funk, soul, beat, rock, latin, jazz, and everything in between — alongside insightful conversations with guests exploring where music meets mental health.

You can listen again to any of the previous shows via Tonic Music's Mixcloud page and also on our YouTube channel.