練習方法

What Is Progressive Pad Practice?

Progressive Pad Practice

Himura Jul 23, 2026 5 min read

Today I want to share a practice method my teacher taught me when I first started drumming.

After more than a decade, I still use this approach. For me it’s very practical—
what I call “progressive practice.”

So, what is progressive practice?

Using sixteenth-note groups as an example: when I can’t play fast yet, I set the metronome to BPM 60 and start a timer, then practice steadily with the click.

Every 3–5 minutes, increase the BPM by 3–5.

Rest 15–30 seconds between stages to relax briefly; don’t rest too long or your feel and body will cool down.

After the break, start the next round until you reach your target BPM for the session.

For example:

BPM 60 — practice 3 minutes

↓ rest 15 seconds

BPM 65 — practice 3 minutes

↓ rest 15 seconds

BPM 70 — practice 3 minutes

↓

Keep increasing until you reach your goal speed!

After practicing this method for a while, you can slowly raise the overall BPM range—
for example from 85–120, then to 120–150. Adjust actual speeds to your level; don’t rush to jump too fast.
During practice, pay attention to these details:

1. Prioritize “slow and steady,” then gradually increase speed.

2. Watch your stick motion; try to keep left and right heights consistent.

3. Practice with even dynamic levels first; only add accents or variations when specifically training them.

4. Keep your eyes on where the sticks land to monitor hand stability.

5. Progressive practice builds endurance, but if your hands are very sore or your motion breaks down, stop and rest—don’t push through.

6. Stay focused while practicing—don’t watch shows at the same time… (huh? XD)

Once you’re used to progressive practice, apply it to warm-ups before playing songs.
If a song is BPM 120, I usually start at BPM 110 and work up to BPM 130.
This lets your hands adapt to the song’s tempo range before you start working on the song itself, making it easier to lock in.

There’s a saying:

“If your sixteenth notes are steady, drum practice is trouble-free!”

Keep it up and gradually build your speed! 🥁

FundamentalsProgressive