If you need to let off a little steam, then pick up a couple of sticks.

"Everyone gets some kind of release from hitting things, and this is a more positive way of getting your aggression out," says David Levine with the Percussion Marketing Council.

But over the last few years, Levine says researchers are learning more about the therapeutic aspects of drumming, and how banging on a snare can actually heal.

"There's been specific research done by Doctor Barry Bittman who's seen actually cellular improvement in cancer patients who consistently play drums," Levine says.

That research was done at the Mind-Body Wellness Center in Meadville, Pennsylvania.

If you're still not convinced drums are for you, research from the University of Toronto suggests that the hobby can also make you smarter.

"Drumming does stimulate brain activity," Levine adds.

Matter of fact, Levine says the research shows that kids who play drums do tend to score better on IQ tests, and have fewer discipline problems.

The drumming research comes at a great time for Chris Kimball of Tacoma. He's organizing an event for drummers called "Woodstick 2005."

Kimball insists you don't have to play professionally, even though drummers from the rock bands Yes, Bad Company, Heart, and Queensryche will all be there trying to set a new Guinness World Record.

502 drummers showed up for last year's "Woodstick," and they set the current drumming record.

"The only requirement is that you bring at least a bass drum, tom-tom, snare drum, and a high hat," says Kimball.

They'll teach you the piece on site. And there's no age limitation.

"We had people in the age bracket of three to 82 last time," Kimball recalls.

"Woodstick 2005" will be held February 21 at the Tacoma Dome.

For Drumming research information:

www.playdrums.com

For Woodstick 2005 information:

www.rotary8.org/outreach.php?l=2&id=24