Norfolk drum school keeps people fit
Keeping fit - you just can't beat it! IAN CLARKE found out how a Norfolk drum school is helping people get in shape, learn a new skill and have lots of fun
Keeping fit - you just can't beat it! IAN CLARKE found out how a Norfolk drum school is helping people get in shape, learn a new skill and have lots of fun
Swimming, aerobics, football, jogging, the gym….we've probably all tried at least one of these to lose a few pounds and tone up.
But what about sitting on a stool in a sound-proofed studio on an industrial estate with a pair of sticks and a set of drums?
That's the recipe for success at JDT Music in Dereham, where Drum Fit is proving a big hit, quite literally.
I'm a complete novice at drumming with a pretty poor sense of rhythm, and my only previous experience amounted to tapping the steering wheel to music while driving.
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I joined a Drum Fit class, led by the enthusiastic, energetic and encouraging Janel Spalding - who opened the studio in 2001.
And I never thought it could be so much fun - and such hard work.
There was a mix of drumming and aerobics and just about every muscle was worked out during the non-stop, hour-long session.
Janel - who now has more than 300 people of all ages attending the studio for a range of classes and sessions in various instruments - said: 'Drum Fit is something I have been hoping to do for a long time but it has been a question of having the time and the drum kits to do it.
'It is now one of the highlights of what I have achieved. People can learn a trade and keep fit - and have fun.'
Dawn Dye, 40, has been going since it started last October
'I needed to tone up and lose some weight and also needed to have fun doing it. When I first came I did not know what I was doing but now it really makes me feel alive.
'What a great way to keep fit. I have tried everything but this is the best!'
Lorraine Dorrington, 44, said: 'I always wanted to drum and had a drum kit for two years. I love Drum Fit and I feel really exhilarated.'
*Sessions are on Mondays at 6.30 and 7.30pm and the groups are currently full, with a waiting list. But more are due to start on Tuesdays.
There is also going to be a 12-hour Drum Fit marathon and an open day at the studio on July 24.
For more information ring 01362 694817 or visit the website www.jdtmusic.co.uk.
