DRUMMER CAFE

Hey guys ( and gals ) !

I originally posted this topic in the questions directly to Bart forum, and there was a mix up. He thought I was speaking of playing in the flat footed "style" and after corresponding with him privately, he realized I was speaking that I WAS "flat footed".
He recommended I post it in this forum and see if I had any replies.
Below is the original post, thanks for any replies!

<<Hey Bart!

Im 42 years old and cant manage the same stamina on the double kick as when I was younger ( I dont get to play as often anymore ) and I am flat footed. When I was younger this didnt seem to be a big problem, but now I am wondering if you have ever heard of how this affect ones performance, and if you have any recomendations ( such as a certain type of shoes, arch supports, etc? I curently wear leather tennis shoes when playing)
I am debating on going to the Vruk extensions and with a lot more workout of the "heel-toe" style, I thought I might run into a problem.
Thanks!
Mark >>

Unfortunately my shortcomings include flat feet.  Sux. 

Walking and standing for long periods are alot more painful than drumming.  Drumming never really bothered my feet since my arch muscles really aren't involved in my kicker technique.

I went thru the Stronsick Ballistic method.  It's great.  I highly recommend it.  There was nothing in it about raising the heel plate that I recall.  In fact, that seems to counter what the technique is about to me. I don't know where you got that Charlie.  Refresh my memory?

So you feel pain in your arches? Probably right arch correct?  That is the only time I have a problem and it is very rare.  I usually get it only when I "whip" with my foot for long periods of time (I think my loudest technique which is basically a heel shot that is not doubled). If I play heel up exclusively or heel down I don't have a problem.  So try that.

My left ankle is the one that is weak and it is the top muscle that joins the top part of my foot to my shin/right at the ankle.  Have no idea what muscle it is called.  Don't know if it has anything to do with having flat feet or not.

I always wear good shoes with arches.  The Ecco brand shoes are the most comfy for my feet.  They don't have a very thick sole.  Try a pair if you have not already.  I even have drummed in their boots before.

But like anything... I have played some jobs and by the last set my right foot just can't get out some figures.  It's a drag when that happens, but by that time everyone is usually worked over anyways.  No big deal- comes with the territory.  All you can do is try and maintain what you have left physically, if not, learn to pace yourself.

There are exercises you can do to strengthen your arches as well as drumming muscles.  I went to a physical therapist (for my stinking flat feet specifically) when I was in my 30's and used to do some prescribed exercises.  I'm not big on exercising so I quit but I have to say they really helped my drumming at the time.  It was uncanny and I told my therapist that.

So maybe see a physical therapist if they are really bugging you.  Do not have your flat feet operated on.  I have heard some horror stories about that.  Prescribed exercises and proper playing technique will really help.

Wesley, I thought thats where I got it from.
Guess the memory isnt getting any better with age.
 I will try to find out where I got that from and will pm you.
Either way, its good to hear from you!

I've noticed a significant difference btw'n drumming at 31 vs. 41. I definitely am more wiped out. but I'm also out of practice. I think consistency is key. if you can keep a fairly consistent practice regimen [even 3x's a wk], it can help you feel more 'together.' getting enough sleep and hitting the gym are very helpful, too.

I did a 2-hour rehearsal last nite and am shot today.