The secret to being a great drummer boils down to three things: practice, practice, and practice. However, unlike guitarists, drummers are pretty limited when it comes to where they can practice. So here’s an affordable solution that will sharpen your stick skills immensely.

Yes, it’s the humble drum pad. Sadly overlooked by budding drummers, this is one of those “secrets” that the pros use to keep their talents razor-sharp. Of course, this isn’t a full drum kit and doesn’t replace practicing with a full kit. What it does do is provide a way for you to practice important rudiments such as the paradiddle or various time signatures, anywhere and at any time.

This pad from Tromme is 12 inches in size and comes with a carry case (although, of course, you will have to provide your own sticks, which is what you should do in any case). If you want to mount this on a stand you need to bring your own as well, but if you already own a drum kit then this is no problem.

This is a silicon pad, which is the superior material both in terms of how it feels to practice on the pad and how long it will last before wearing out.

If you have a friend or family member who’s an avid drummer but is driving you up the wall, this is also an awesome way to tell them that they should keep it down. In the end they will thank you for it.