Here is a 10-second tip for you.
This one is what I call the “Stable Test”.
I was reminded of this when filming some mini videos the other day.
When watching one video back, I noticed my guitar’s neck was moving around ever so slightly as I played.
This wasn’t a big deal, as what I was playing was pretty simple and the guitar was secure.
The thing is, though, we all have to be wary of letting the neck of the guitar move around too much when we play.
Some folks are never told to think about this.
If the guitar does move around, that will likely mean you don’t have it in a completely stable position.
…And if the guitar is not stable, you won’t be able to play with true fluidity.
You might even end up trying to hold the guitar in place as you play and this can restrict your hand movements (never a good idea).
There are all sorts of things that can go wrong here.
A very useful test is the “Stable Test”.
This is where you get into your usual sitting position with the guitar and you let go of it and see what happens.
If the guitar stays still, then that is great.
If the guitar moves around a lot, that is not good.
Now, just a word of warning, if you’ve never done this before, be ready to catch your guitar as it may slide off your lap or the headstock may plummet to the ground like a stone.
Be careful!
Getting this one basic thing sorted once and for all is important.
It’s a fundamental that allows everything else to work.
I see it like running or playing sports on a really wet pitch.
If you play in proper studded footwear, you’ll be ready to perform to the best of your ability.
If you play in trainers with a poor grip, you’ll probably land on your backside.
This exact thing happened to me the other day, by the way, when Archie and I went for a football kickabout!
Anyway, give the “Stable Test” a try, and if you want to learn more about improving all the fundamentals of playing with precise technique, then check out my eBook bundle.
I’ve put it on sale for a short time.
There’s a whole eBook on technique, and other eBooks on chord changes, barre chords, and much more.
It’s been one of my most popular resources over the years and you can get it below with a discount for a few days.
Find out more about the Guitar Domination Super eBook Bundle
Have a great Friday!
Dan Thorpe
Guitar Domination
P.S. This post was originally taken from Dan Thorpe’s private email list. To get blog posts like this sent to you which are full of great tips to make fingerpicking, strumming, and learning guitar more enjoyable (especially if you are over 40) join Dan’s list. It’s 100% free, HERE.
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