If you are a drummer in a rock band, you probably are as fit as a footballer. That's assessment of scientists after an eight-year study involving Clem Burke, drummer of the band Blondie.

The study, conducted by scientists from the University Of Gloucestershire and the University Of Chichester as part of the Clem Burke Project, reported that drumming in a rock concert is as gruelling as playing 90 minuites in an English Premier League match.

Dr Marcus Smith, a Principal Lecturer in Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences at the University of Chichester, said: "There is a clear link between fitness and performance. Musicians need exceptional stamina to sustain optimum output, especially when on tour.

"Footballers can normally expect to play 40 to 50 games a year. But in one 12-month period, Clem played 90-minute sets at 100 concerts. If you looked at the heart rates of a Premiership footballer and Clem over 90 minutes, you wouldn't know which was which.

"Footballers find playing a Champions League game once every two weeks a drain, but these guys are doing it every day when they are on tour.

"When you consider the implications of the touring on top of the performance requirements for high-profile drummers, it is clear that their fitness levels need to be outstanding.

"Through monitoring Clem's performance in controlled conditions, we have been able to map the extraordinary stamina required by professional drummers. We can now use this data to benefit others."

Physiological tests included the measurement of heart rate, oxygen uptake and blood lactate in rehearsal tests and monitoring heart rate and blood lactate during live stage performances.

The Clem Burke Project is based on the pursuit of knowledge through the application of scientific principles to the various art forms of drumming. It is committed to the dissemination of information leading to increased enjoyment, health and well-being of all participants involved in drumming.