Swivel Technique

The swivel technique is a good method for controlling your speed and accuracy. If you are just beginning to play double bass, more than likely, your are playing heels-up. This technique is a good transition into double bass playing, because it simply builds upon your heels-up method.

Plant the ball of your foot on your pedal’s “sweet spot”. You won’t really be hitting the pedal with your foot. It just kind of rests there while your heels do all the work. With your foot planted, move your heel from side to side over the base of the footboard. This motion will cause the pedal to strike and the momentum of moving your heels keeps the pedal moving.

This short video demonstrates the swivel method. I think Tim Waterson explains it best when he describes the motion as “stamping out a cigarette.” Think of your pedal as a giant cigarette that you are stamping out.

Double Bass Drum Applications

I personally, rarely use this technique. I learned this method alongside the heel toe method at the same time and I prefer heel toe to swivel for speed. I sometimes use the swivel if I’m playing heels up and feel like I’m losing the beat. For me, this method is better suited for playing a steady beat than for improving speed. I would recommend trying them both out and seeing which one works better for you. You can learn the Heel Toe Technique here.

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