Going from 7 hours to 10 hours a week of practice. What happens?

 What happens when at age 59 you go from 7 hours a week to 10 hours a week of practice?

Since  I started playing drums at age 50 I've been averaging about an hour a day of disciplined practice on the kit. On top of that add passive listening time. This year I thought what the heck, let's go to 10 hours a week and see what happens. 

What happened?

A lot. I'm just finishing my third month and the hands and feet have never felt better. I've become even more focused on the exercises from my various teachers over the years. 

1. Terry Clarke
2. Enrique Loyola
3. Paul DeLong
4. Greg Hutchinson
5. Lowell Whitty
6. Tony Nesbit-Larking
7.  Ali Jackson
8. Rufus Reid, yes the bassist

Musicians can hear the changes. I can hear the changes.

That's the good news. The concerning news is this. This past week was a bit tough, I'm pooped. I didn't make my numbers. I'm always watching the clock. 

The challenge this week to mediate on how to maintain my enthusiasm and energy. Rearranging some elements of my work schedule is one step. Keeping up my exercise regime is the second. Practice has eaten into exercise time, not a good thing.

Reading Brad Stulberg's new book: "The passion paradox" is a priority this week. More on this book soon. 

In the meantime general rules apply.

1. sleep
2. have fun with my spouse
3. exercise
4. count and measure carefully

Cheers,

​David Story

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