[gyutae]

People say "No pain, no gain" but what extent should we take this when practicing? I try to work on my rudiments and push myself to get faster and work on speed. However, how much pain is good? I usually go until I feel a burning sensation in my hands, arms, and wrists but I don't know whether or not this is healthy. I don't want to limit myself though but at the same time I don't want to injure myself. Does anyone have a good solution for this?

[Gooner]

Does the burning sensation stop when you rest?

[gyutae]

Well yeah it stops when I rest but as I continue to play, it builds up. I'm afraid if I go any harder I might injure myself or sacrifice my form and playing. My question was: How far do you push yourself to maximize gains while at the same time minimizing the risk of injury?

[Gooner]

Well it sounds like simple muscle fatigue, which is not necessarily harmful (especially with light weights, like drumsticks). It is unlikely that you will cause any significant injury...but I do imagine that your form would deteriorate...As with exercise, there will be a point when you cannot maximize your gain any further, as the body does have its limits...

[gyutae]

I would think that as I push myself more and more my muscles will develop and I'll be able to last for a longer period of time with my drum strokes.