As we enter another summer of drumming outside, I wanted to go over some essential things that everyone should be doing inside and outside of rehearsal.
Look, I don't know where you live exactly - but it gets hot.
And when you're outside, in the middle of the day, running around with a drum on, your body gets a workout.
I see too many people approaching drumline like a leisure activity and not a sport...
People who show up to an all-day outdoor rehearsal in jeans, skater shoes, and a fancy t-shirt.
Seriously?
So here's the deal...
Follow these guidelines and I guarantee your body will thank you for it. Not to mention you'll feel more comfortable in rehearsal...
1. Drink Water - Lots of Water
When you use energy, your body sweats. It's science.
You need to replenish that liquid in your body or else you'll get dehydrated and being dehydrated is no fun.
Don't drink energy drinks or sodas. Drink water - good ol' H20 - before, during, and after rehearsals.
2. Wear Athletic Clothing
Pick your favorite athlete and then imagine them showing up to a practice, training session, or workout in street clothes...
Then take a second to realize that they would never do that...ever.
You need to show up to your practices and rehearsals with the same approach and wear appropriate athletic clothing that allows you to move freely and stay cool.
3. Protect Yourself From The Sun
Now I know you like to get your tan on, but you'll be in the sun enough that even when you wear sunscreen you'll get some bronze, bro.
And for the record, it's not cool to get sun burned so your skin blisters and then peels off. There's no badge of honor for not wearing sunscreen - all you do by doing that is increase your chances of skin cancer down the road.
Wear sunscreen and sunglasses to every outdoor rehearsal that you have.
4. Eat Well and Exercise
It's easier said than done, but make an effort to eat healthy food and exercise regularly.
A simple 15 minute jog followed by 10 push-ups, 10 crunches, and 10 squats will take you no more than 25 minutes a day. I'm no fitness expert (I stick with the flams and things), but a simple routine like this will keep your core muscles active and make marching with a drum a whole lot easier.
So there it is.
Four things to do during your summer to improve your drumline experience and stay healthy in the process.
All of those things are common sense. None of them are difficult.
You just have to not be lazy and do them!
Speaking of not being lazy...you'll probably have some spare time on your hands this summer.
Use that time to boost your chops.
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