If you like to mix up your workout routine, you’ll know there’s no shortage of niche fitness trends out there to try, including TikTok-approved trends like rebounding, rucking and treadmill strutting.

And now, there’s a new niche fitness class in town: cardio drumming.

A twist on regular drumming, cardio drumming involves dancing around a large exercise ball and rhythmically whacking it with a pair of drumsticks. It may seem bizarre, but letting loose and channelling your inner Danielle Haim can be fun.

We spoke to Rowan Clift, a training specialist at fitness and lifestyle coaching app Freeletics, to find out more about this niche trend. Can drumming really offer a full-body workout? And is it really as fun as it looks?

It’s exactly what it sounds like: drumming with a cardio twist. Cardio drumming classes usually involve drumming with two drumsticks on a large exercise ball held in place by a bucket or a stand. An instructor will guide you through a drumming routine that includes various cardio moves to get your heart rate up and your muscles engaged. 

Some classes might switch things up and lead classes that ditch the ball and use the sticks on the floor, following what is essentially an upbeat dance routine. Other instructors may even incorporate props like resistance bands, weights or pilates balls.

“Cardio drumming is a great full-body workout that combines rhythmic movements with cardio exercise,” says Clift. “It’s more than just sitting there and drumming. You are doing squats, lunges and moving your whole body in time with the beat. It’s a really good way to improve your cardiovascular health, build endurance and burn calories without the impact of the more traditional cardio exercises.”

Unlike many other cardio classes, cardio drumming engages your entire body – fast.

“The drumming aspect of this exercise adds a unique twist that works both your arms and core, while the lower body movement provides you with a complete workout,” he says. “It’s suitable for all fitness levels and you can participate at any age.”

“Cardio drumming is an exciting, full-body workout that can boost your fitness levels without feeling like you’re doing intense exercise,” says Clift. “It can improve your heart health and build up your endurance while also being easy on the joints.”

But it can also be so much more. Thanks to the musical, rhythmic element of the classes, cardio drumming can improve your mind-body connection, enhance your coordination and build your sense of balance. As studies have shown, rhythmic exercise, like cardio drumming, might even improve connectivity in your brain networks, protecting you from age-related brain problems. 

All of this can make it great for relieving stress and improving your mood. “I find that combining music, rhythm and fitness is really effective because it boosts both the physical and mental aspects of a workout,” says Clift. “Music can help to energise people, making exercise more enjoyable.”

He adds: “Rhythm naturally aids in improving coordination and endurance over time, while also activating the brain’s reward system and releasing dopamine, the feel-good chemical that can help lift your mood and reduce stress.”

Plus, it’s really, addictively fun. “The upbeat energy keeps people motivated and returning to take part more,” says Clift.

Try to find a local class to see if cardio drumming is for you. “The best place to start is by finding a beginner-friendly class, either at a local gym or online, where instructors can guide you through the basics,” suggests Clift. 

Drumfitt in Nottinghamshire or Pound cardio classes across the UK are just two examples.

If you can’t find a local class, it’s easy to get set up at home. All you’ll need is an exercise ball, a bucket and a couple of drumsticks.

Images: Getty