3: Basic Guitar Technique: Muscle Memory

Most beginner guitar players haven't a clue about the importance of developing good technique. They usually rush in and learn bad habits that cause major problems a few months down the track.

Basic Muscle-Memory Training

1. Body & Hand Tension – beginners generally have too much tension in their hands and bodies when learning how to play guitar. This causes a stiffness and lack of ability to play fluently and effortlessly. This also badly affects the quality of the sound you produce too. A good player with great guitar technique seems to float effortlessly and make things look a lot easier. You must be as relaxed as you can at all times when practicing/playing guitar. Work to develop a relaxed, light touch.
2. Excessive Finger & Hand Movement – The shortest distance between two points is a straight line. You need to develop an economical, efficient style when changing chords. Move your fingers the least distance possible when changing chords. Otherwise you end up taking too long to change from one chord to another. Changing chords becomes awkward and clumsy. This also badly affects your sound and ability to play good rhythm guitar.

On the next page we will look at how to use your head and hands for the best results when learning how to play guitar.

Play guitar with your head