Travis Barker — he’s not just the drummer for pop-punk band, Blink 182. According to a huge poll conducted by Rhythm Magazine, he’s officially the best rock drummer in the entire world. Willing and able to take on any style of music, from rock to rap to country, Baker’s played with some of the biggest artists of the day, including Kid Cudi, N.E.R.D., Rhianna, Britney Spears, and Pink. It’s hard not to idolize the man for his skills behind the skins. When someone’s considered the best, it’s difficult to think they were ever like you — confused and timid with their sticks. But even Travis Barker had to start somewhere and it was from ground zero just like you.

Learning to play the drums has a surprising list of emotional and physical benefits. Forget about yoga and meditation, drums are the ultimate stress reliever. Once you’ve established a beat and can get lost in the rhythm, each strike against the snare lets your release your strangle hold on the frustrations of the day. But raging against the skins like that is physically demanding, and every additional day behind your set will build strength and coordination. Studies have shown dedicated practice will also rewire your brain, forming synapses that allow you to keep accurate timing, so your beat is never off the mark.

Practice is the magic word. Without it, you’ll never form and strengthen these pathways or beef up your arms. We won’t lie to you. Long and frustrating hours are needed until you can keep time with the likes of Barker, who began his career using a classic 3-piece starter kit. The Hi-hat, bass, and snare drums are the foundation of any kit and is all you need to get started. Depending on your budget and experience, you may want to branch out while on your search for drum sets for sale. You could build a much larger set by adding toms, cymbals, and other percussion accessories, or you could opt for an entirely electric drum set. For those of you who want to test out the forefront of digital drumming, try the new Yamaha electronic drum kits at your local music store and see if it’s right for you.

At first, you won’t sound like your idol, but don’t get discourage. Stick with it, speak with other drummers, and find an instructor that can tutor you on the best techniques. These tricks plus time and patience are all that you need to build up serious skills. Electric drum set or not, once you’ve mastered your first beat, you’ll feel like you’ve made it.