When I first purchased a double bass drum pedal, I found that my left foot was really weak, so I tried air drumming along to some music. As I was doing so, playing my double bass pedal into a propped up pillow. Also, try using a few pillows to make a makeshift kit. Ste Arands When playing a gig, if you don't have a stick bag that attaches to your floor tom, keep an extra stick on top of the bass drum, between the two mounted toms. If you break or drop a stick in the middle of a song, it's in easy reach of your hand without missing a beat.
Simplicity is the key to success.
Use only what you need, and not what may just look good. If you only use 4 drums when performing, don't lug around a 9-piece set with all kinds of cymbals and accessories. Only use what's necessary. After you master that, you can bounce the sticks slowly. Don't go fast until you have mastered the double stroke roll slowly.