3 Reasons You’ll Love Your First Drum Cardio Class

When was the last time you tried something for the first time?

As an adult who has pretty much begrudgingly accepted that most days will be sustaining, balancing, and putting out small fires, 

I still get chills when I think of introducing a novel experience into my life!

In personal development philosophy, it is essential to make time for curiosity and wonder to take up space in my life. 

This time, instead of taking at-home YouTube solo Pilates classes, I decided to direct that wonder into the world of group fitness. 

Cool, I thought. 

I had been looking to introduce more calorie-torching workouts, as I'm in my 30s, and I thought this workout would be similar to West African. 

Was I right about this guess?

Keep reading to discover exactly what my first Drum Cardio class offered and the reasons why you may also resonate with and consider a cardio drumming workout class for your next group fitness splurge! 


What Is Drum Cardio? (Quick Intro for Beginners)

Because I wanted to step into this experience with no expectations, a quick Google search did not reveal the fundamentals needed for this class:  Percussion Sticks, a Bucket, and an Exercise Ball. 


The Drum Ninja describes Drum Cardio as, 

An exercise routine where you place an exercise ball inside a bucket and then hit it with a pair of sticks. While you do this, you move your body side to side along with high-intensity music. 


Beginner-friendly drum cardio workout

And you aren't just grooving alongside the ball + bucket. 

And there were squats, in-place jogging bursts, high knees, and abdominal exercises woven into my class from Live and Breathe Wellness. 

And yes, you are in control of the intensity for the whole workout. 

You can transform yourself from a high-intensity percussion savage to a passive bopper with your equipment within your class. 

That is why this rhythmic exercise method is excellent for a diverse set of ages and abilities. 

Let's explore some reasons why you may fall in love with this stress-relieving workout! 

3 Reasons You'll Love Your First Drum Cardio Class

1. It's a Full-Body, High-Energy Workout

The level of soreness and muscle engagement was similar to that of a moderate hour-long swim, especially in the upper back, mid-back, and upper arms. 

Leaving the class feeling as if you are still burning calories after the workout, along with the boost in posture, is a truly fulfilling experience. 

The squats and high knees were seamlessly woven into the class, much like choreography.

Drum rhythms remained repetitive in some parts of songs, while other parts of songs provided ample opportunity for contrasting rhythms. 

It's so easy to slow burn or torch it through a thoughtful pairing of music and movement. 

2. It's Stress Relief Disguised as Fun

I was pleasantly surprised by the level of endorphin release that quickly rose,  as pesky little worries, annoyances, and frustrations rapidly began to fade away. 

The stress relief benefits are as practical as Sudafed in clearing headaches. 

And it's not just your own rhythm that you're riding. It is the energy and passion of everyone else's rhythm that underscores a feeling of community and group energy.

3. It's Beginner-Friendly and Accessible

I love how you can add modifications as you go and still stay in the groove. 

Maybe those knees won't be as high for a set of high knees, but you can take a firm and rhythmic stomp in their place. 

You could complete the abdominal sequences without the exercise balls, but with a firm grip on your sticks. 

It's a customizable workout that doesn't shame you for not having a uniform approach. 

Making something your own has never felt better.

💡 Tips for First-Time Drum Cardio Beginners

  • Wear comfortable clothes and sneakers that allow you to move freely.

  • Bring water and a towel, and dress in layers. Temperature control can make you more comfortable as you push yourself through the workout.

  • Don't stress about perfection; focus on stamina. I like this workout because the push of going for another set of reps feels like an achievable groove while in the moment.

  • Arrive a few minutes early to grab your sticks, stretch out your neck,  and find a good spot.


🎵 Final Thoughts: Is it time to try Drum Cardio for yourself?

If you're craving a workout that boosts your mood while burning calories, Drum Cardio is it.

It's joyful, energizing, and surprisingly empowering to unleash your inner rockstar while getting fit.

The rhythmic unity I felt from everyone in the session connected me back to the comforting unity I experienced in a West African Dance Class with African drums.

Next time you're scrolling through class options, take a chance and sign up for a Drum Cardio session!

I would love to hear your reflections on taking the class, or suggestions on more high-impact and stress-busting group fitness classes that have worked wonders for your mental and physical health.

Happy Drumming!

-dd

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