How I structure my practice
Every drummer’s practice routine looks a little different. It depends on your level, how much time you can dedicate, and what you’re working toward. What works for me might not be the perfect fit for you, but having some kind of structure helps avoid sitting down at the kit and just wandering.
This is the routine I’ve built over time, shaped by my own goals and the guidance of the teachers I’ve studied with. It’s not the only way to practice, but it’s what keeps me moving forward. I aim for at least 90 minutes a day, and when I have more time, I’ll stretch each section a little longer.
1. Warm ups (15 minutes)
I start simple and slow. Singles, doubles, paradiddles etc… basic pad work to loosen up and get the blood flowing. It’s not about speed or chops here, just getting comfortable and easing into the session.
2. Hand technique and rudiments (15 minutes)
This is where I dig into the fundamentals. Books like Wilcoxon, Pratt or Joe Morello’s Master Studies are always in rotation. Even just a few minutes a day keeps the hands sharp and builds control that shows up everywhere else.
3. Coordination exercises (15 minutes)
Drumming is about independence, so I spend time pushing myself with limb coordination. Playing patterns against ostinatos or working through clave variations challenges me and strengthens my timing.
4. Learn new grooves or new material (15 minutes)
Here’s where it gets super fun. I’ll explore a groove from a new style, break down a transcription, or work on variations of something I already know. It’s about expanding my vocabulary so I’m ready for whatever comes up in rehearsal or a gig.
5. Practice with music (20 minutes or more)
Finally, I put it all in context. Playing along with recordings, working through charts, or just locking into a track connects the technical side with the musical side. This is where everything comes together and starts to feel like music instead of just exercises.
Why this works for me
This balance of warmup, technique, coordination, groove exploration, and real music keeps practice engaging without overwhelming me. Some days I spend longer on one section, other days I shorten things, the point is consistency, not perfection.
A final note
Your practice doesn’t have to look like mine. Maybe you only have 20 minutes, or maybe you’re working on material for a specific gig. The best routine is the one you’ll actually follow. Structure it in a way that keeps you motivated, and let it evolve as your playing grows.