Having Trouble With Guitar Chords? Try This Simple Switch to Make Them Easier
Having Trouble With Guitar Chords? Try This Simple Switch to Make Them Easier
Hey guys, Brad Litton from SimpleGuitar.com. This blog post transcribes my YouTube video on a simple shift that makes playing chords a lot easier — especially if your hand hurts, you're just starting out as an adult, or your wrist and fingers don't want to cooperate.
It's a short lesson. Straight to the point.
The Usual Position (What We See on TV)
A lot of people start with the guitar on the right leg (left leg if you're left-handed), sitting pretty flat. That's comfortable. It's what we see on TV. There's nothing wrong with it.
But if your arm is stretched out, your wrist is kinked, and you're thinking "why won't my hand work the way I want?" — try this.
The Switch: A More Classical Stance
Take the guitar and put it on your left leg. Let it lean between your left leg and right leg, and lean back against your body.
You may elevate your left foot a little. Sometimes I put my right foot on the ground and rest my left foot on top of it.
That's a more classical stance. I don't always play like this. Not everybody who plays popular music does this. It's not for everybody. But it puts your hand in a position where your wrist can stay straight. Almost no strain on the arm or shoulder. Even barre chords feel different.
What You're After
- Neck angled up more
- Guitar closer to your body
- You're not stretched out
- You're not kinking your wrist
Good technique gets a lot easier from there.
What to Do This Week
Try this classical position for a week or two. If you've been struggling with technique or chords, this is the simple shift.
If you want a simple place to start, grab my free Top 10 Things to Learn on Guitar First at http://simpleguitar.com/top10.
And hang out with other adult guitar players in the Simple Guitar Facebook group: http://facebook.com/groups/simpleguitar.
About the Author
Brad from Simple Guitar helps adult learners play the songs they love without the frustration. Visit simpleguitar.com for more free resources and lessons.
