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Getting older

#61
IamGroot said:
I got 16ths at 95 bpm for 20 seconds today before starting to lose it.

Your post about 120 and beyond for 10 minutes was motivational .
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I was careful when I wrote the post - wanted to avoid the perception that I am bragging, because that was not the intent. It did take me a while to build up to the tempos I mentioned, and if I take a break from playing for a week or two (e.g. take a vacation), I have to build up again. But if the advice helps you, then I am glad.
 
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#63
smtp4me said:
Do you have a smart phone? If so there are several metronome apps available. I am 54, and if I can offer some advice based on what has worked for me:
I use a metronome app and do some basic "pedaling" on open strings at the beginning of every practice session. For example - I start at 120 BPM, and I play 16th notes for a total of 10 minutes, 2.5 minutes for each string (I play 4 string). Yes it can be boring/monotonous. When I finish at 120 BPM, I bump the tempo up to 130 BPM and do the same thing, except 4 minutes (1 minute per string, still playing 16ths). Finally, I do the same again at 140 BPM - 16th notes at 1 minute per string. I've been doing this for more than 5 years at approximately 4 to 5 times per week, and I didn't begin at 120, 130, and 140 BPM - I had to build up to it - but it has helped immensely. And the key is the constant repetition. Not only does it help with speed and stamina, but also with consistency. When I play lengthy passages of 8th/16th notes, the notes are more consistent.

That is my routine for right hand (plucking hand), and it takes less than 20 minutes. My routine for the fretting hand is longer/more intense, it takes about 30 minutes, and it is made up of permutations and other repetitive pattern exercises.
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A great alternative to the basic metronome is to use a drum machine app. Varying the style of the time-keeping we listen to helps keep it interesting.
 
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#64
I'm sure the answer is yes, but I've never had great speed, as I have an autoimmune issue that results in chronic inflammation in my hands. Lately I've found a fairly effective treatment for that, so at the advanced age of 60 I'm finally working on developing more speed. I know my age is working against me but I feel like at least I'll be the best I'm able to be, whatever that is. Don't give up.
 
#68
No denying the effects of aging on agility. As an RA sufferer for the last 20 years, I know inflammation and fortunately have found ways to reduce it. One technique that I've always used to some extent is to introduce my third (ring) finger on the picking hand. As my fingers slow down, adding the third finger more often than in the past helps maintain speed and gives the other two a rest. It's still a work in progress, but what technique isn't?
 
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#69
Whousedtoplay said:
I need to explore that new "panacea".

6 Potential Uses of Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) + Side Effects - SelfHacked
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It's one of those things that helps some people and doesn't help others. No one knows exactly how it works. Most of us who try it start with very small doses and titrate up to avoid initial side effects. As you titrate up, you find a sweet spot where the dose is most effective. People go up as high as 4.5 mg but I can't really go above 2 mg myself. Usually stick somewhere around 1.5 mg. The good news is that if you feel any effect at all from it, there's a strong chance it will help you.
 
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#70
smtp4me said:
I was careful when I wrote the post - wanted to avoid the perception that I am bragging, because that was not the intent. It did take me a while to build up to the tempos I mentioned, and if I take a break from playing for a week or two (e.g. take a vacation), I have to build up again. But if the advice helps you, then I am glad.
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Well i have gone from 90 to 100bpm in two days using your approach. Actually, i set the metronome at 50 and alternate 16ths and 32nds. Thanks
 
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#71
Groove Doctor said:
Yes and No. It takes more time & effort to maintain what you once did easily. Use it or lose it.
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I agree. Being now 51, I notice that some technique I don't use too much (both on bass guitar and double bass) becomes lightly harder, and I'd need more time to keep them in shape.
Getting older, my friend.
 
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#72
deste said:
I agree. Being now 51, I notice that some technique I don't use too much (both on bass guitar and double bass) becomes lightly harder, and I'd need more time to keep them in shape.
Getting older, my friend.
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Double bass, i have given up. It is a physically demanding instrument even when played correctly. And a cruel mistress, as if you ignore her for a few days, she will show you who is boss. There is great pleasure when you wrap your hands around her hips and coax music from her, that her skinny sister cant match.
 
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#75
IamGroot said:
(...) And a cruel mistress, as if you ignore her for a few days, she will show you who is boss. There is great pleasure when you wrap your hands around her hips and coax music from her, that her skinny sister cant match.
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A subtle, sublime pleasure. Some people calls it BDSM.

(Bass Does Superior Music)
 
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