All the old 'great' teachers I had who could swing like no bodies business said to practice on a pillow to work your chops and muscles. Then transfer the same work-out to the drum. This is better than a pillow! It gives the same type of feel as goose down, but it is much easier to use. The cost is a bit much but if you use it it's worth it.

I would like to warn anybody who may think this is a good buy... The whole point of practicing rudiments or percussion in general is to get a relaxed feel out of everything you play, and to let the stick REBOUND back upwards so that you do not ever downstroke. If you wanted to destroy your technique, then buy this circle, if not dont.

I bought the small version a few years ao and I love it. Very durable and very quiet. I wouldn't say "library quiet," but they are very quiet. They helped me out with speed, endurance and I noticed after using it, it helped with my accuracy also. I have and will continue to recommend this product to friends/colleagues and students.