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Watch now See how drumming can improve brain function

Sport research that makes a difference

Monitoring brain changes, motor skills, and wellbeing of young people with ASD revealed that drumming changes the function of the brain. Benefits include improvements in motor skills for daily living, such as brushing teeth and using cutlery, as well as a reduction in often disruptive behavioural problems. Next steps The results have inspired the launch of a number of school-funded drumming projects in both special and mainstream schools across Gloucestershire, as well as the adoption of drumming interventions in community groups across England. We’re planning further studies to add to this important evidence base. Research conducted by the 10-year Clem Burke Drumming Project, co-founded by our Academic Dean, Professor Steve Draper, was carried out by scientists at Hartpury University, Kings College London, the University of Essex, and the University of Chichester, and is funded by The Waterloo Foundation.

Being active is critical to health and happiness, which is why our research spans such diverse areas of physical activity. From high performance athletes to school sport and community health, our students and staff are making a difference to people's lives through research. We’ve recently discovered that repetitive physical activity can reshape the structure of the brain to improve movement control. This revelation could have a positive impact on the lives of people living with a range of neurological conditions. Recognised by the 2021 Research Excellence Framework as 'world-leading' and 'internationally excellent', the Clem Burke Drumming Project (CBDP) is changing this, unveiling exciting new evidence that reveals the potential for drumming as a therapeutic activity to enhance physical capability, health and wellbeing.

Do what you love | www.hartpury.ac.uk/research