
Drums Alive: drumming for health
What is Drums Alive?
Drums Alive is a group exercise class that is based on rhythmic drumming combined with arm and leg movements. A variety of music is used with different tempos. You don’t need to have any music experience to participate. Drums Alive can be done standing or sitting. The program can be modified for your ability and fitness level. You get a full cardio endurance workout while the muscles of your core, arms and legs are put into action. Drum Sticks, Pool Noodles, “Boom Whackers”, scarfs , bells and our voices are also used to express ourselves during Drums Alive. This is a fun, energetic and social community enjoying moving together while getting a great workout.
A great “Brain Exercise”
This program is also a great “brain exercise”. Following the movement patterns and rhythm makes your brain work while moving your body. Just like real life, our brains and body to not work in isolation. Challenging our brain to think while we are moving helps us with performing our tasks that we do at home.
Rhythm quiets our brain and muscles and lets us focus
With rhythmic drumming patterns individuals with Parkinson’s have seen decrease muscle tone and more fluid movements after drumming. They have also reported that drumming is effective in pain management. Those with ADHD or anxiety have found that drumming calms the brain and allows them to focus. Individuals who are are neuro diverse (autistic spectrum) have found that drumming allows them to self regulate when they have sensory overload.
Who can participate in Drums Alive?
- Individuals 18+ and all abilities are welcomed.
- Modifications will be made for individuals as necessary.
- Individuals do not need music experience to participate in this program.

When is this program offered?
This program is offered throughout the year
- Designed for adults 18+ of all abilities
- Co-ed
- Participants must be able to follow directions from the lead facilitator.
- If participants need assistance with following directions, a support staff must attend and assist the individual at the program.
- If you need assistance finding support, please contact STAR. We may have 1:1 mentors available.
- Participants will be held to the STAR Center Code of Conduct

This program was made possible through a grant from the La Crosse Community Foundation.



