Are there any excercises I can do to stop my right (plucking) hand from cramping?

DeliriumTremens · #1 10-10-2010, 01:53 PM

Having been a long time pick player recently I have decided to pretty much ditch the pick altogether and go fingerstyle. However, I find that my right hand tends to cramp up and slow down making my playing uneven and sloppy. Are there any excercises I can do to specifically target this or is the only cure good old fashioned practice?

Aaron_D · #2 10-10-2010, 01:55 PM

When I think cramping, I think stretching. Make sure you are stretched out and are keeping your wrists neutral and relaxed.

DeliriumTremens · #3 10-10-2010, 01:59 PM

Perhaps cramping is the wrong word, it's more like if you cycle for a long time, that heavy slow feeling you get in your legs, except this is in my hand.

Nashrakh · #4 10-10-2010, 02:11 PM

Muscle fatigue?

You must have pretty weak hands if you get that from playing bass, haha.

If it's really just that, you'll build some stamina over time. How's your hand position though?

DeliriumTremens · #5 10-10-2010, 02:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nashrakh

Muscle fatigue?

You must have pretty weak hands if you get that from playing bass, haha.

If it's really just that, you'll build some stamina over time. How's your hand position though?

I never get this in my left hand, so I don't think it's muscle fatigue. Bass is fairly high, there's some angle on my wrist...

DeliriumTremens · #6 10-10-2010, 02:33 PM

Been thinking about it and it only occurs on 16th notes played constantly.... I think I just need to practice more

Nashrakh · #7 10-10-2010, 02:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DeliriumTremens

I never get this in my left hand, so I don't think it's muscle fatigue. Bass is fairly high, there's some angle on my wrist...

Well, that's the thing. If it really IS muscle fatigue, it's only logical it doesn't occur in your left hand - you've been training that one for as long as play.

Turock · #8 10-10-2010, 02:56 PM

Use your other hand.