From bowiki

Arguably the most important driver in the Single End or Top End style of play.

In evaluating the mechanics of the method it is very clear that the thumb is the driver behind the style. i.e. the stroke is initiated and powered by pressing the thumb downward to rotate the tipper toward the Skin.

The upstroke happens naturally as a consequence of the thumb preparing for the next downstroke and helped by the tipper rebounding off the second finger. It is efficient and every movement is contributing usefully. It is technically possible to play solely by using the thumb although some wrist rotation to be inevitable.

This way of thumb-oriented playing combined with the amplification of wrist movement, marries many efficient and effective play benefits.

   * Straight wrist and radio-ulnar rotation - not swinging a heavy hand as with a 'traditional'/kerry grip.
   * Small but amplified movements - Minimum input with maximum output - reduce wasted effort
   * Reduce wrist rotation requirement (always a potential for RSIs)
   * Provides for high degree of technical control and dynamic variation

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With the second finger providing rebound plus the natutal requirement for the thumb to 'return to base' for the following downstroke, you will find that you often will not have to be concerned with the upstroke, it is semi-automatic. This is particularly useful when executing rolls for example, In the case of the 5-stroke roll DUDUD, it becomes D D D in a players mind but 5 strokes sound in execution. This auto-upstroke thinking is a key mental element to speed for single ended striking. Naturally the ability to execute double downs makes a big technical difference. Using a practise regime and structured exercises, such as are found here at the academy, this will become second nature.

Wrist rotation comes from the elbow, the basic motion is similar to turning a key or a doorknob. If you try that action with a tipper in your hand you will accomplish the basic wrist movement. If you accompany the wrist movement with the thumb push, you will find that the stroke is more powerful. The wrist to my mind, accelerates/amplifies the thumb motion. By balancing the combinations of those two 'drivers', the player develops a greater range of stroke strengths.

Because the thumb only has to move a relatively short distance, it can do so rapidly and you will find that the execution of rolls or faster play may include a greater degree of thumb influence than slower play. This can be seen in this video where faster rolls have less visible wrist motion.

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Warning About Potential Injuries: Any rapid and prolonged movement of the arm or hand runs the risk of developing into a repetitive strain injury. There are players out there with Tennis Elbow and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome from drumming and it should be recognised as a potential hazard. Make sure you warm up before playing to get the blood flowing through musicles and build up intensity slowly to get everything moving. Warm up & build up!