Andre, I really want to thank you for making this video. It’s one of the most important subjects few ever talk about. I have horrible tendinitis from playing for hours on end even though I use a foot rest and hold my electric guitar on my left knee in classical position, sometimes with my legs crossed, sometimes on my right knee legs crossed. I also use compression gloves and sleeves when the pain gets bad enough. We just don’t think about ergonomics when we’re young and now everything hurts. I will certainly check out that fascinating attachable rest you’re using as none of my solutions work entirely. Excellent video, my friend!
Thank you for the support, sir! The injury I got a couple years ago, I was still only in my mid 20s. It feel like it was a warning sign to get smarter, so I take this all much more seriously now! I hope to help others before they need any type of medical intervention.
I'm 79, been playing for more than 50 years, and had major back surgery in the mid-1970s. I haven't played guitar while standing in decades, and have sold or traded some guitars because they were simply uncomfortable to play while sitting. Weight is always an issue (under 8 lbs. as a minimum, under 7 lbs. is even better). If I could afford one (I can't), one of the arguments in favor of an early Parker Fly is that some of them weigh less than 6 lbs. I have a P-44 in Mahogany, that's just under 7 lbs. I tolerate it because it's a Parker. I've never been a fan of big dreadnought acoustics because they lack (A) a belly cut; and (B) a forearm chamfer, both of which make it easier on me to play for extended periods. For that reason, most (but not all) of my guitars are solid-body electrics, where those kinds of body mods are often part of the package, and I always, always play with a guitar strap.
I am fortunate to own several Strandbergs. As a guitarist with 45 years of gigging and two carpal tunnel surgeries behind me, the ergonomic design of Strandberg has been a blessing. I’ve no doubt those guitars will extend the years I am able to play
André, you're the only TH-camr I've seen that's discussed ergonomics, which is mind bending. I've always impressed upon my students (when I taught) how important this is, as it can lead to chronic injury, or worse. Liked and subbed!
That topic of posture is of the highest importance. Rarely talked about. - You really nail the details. - The cushioned classical position truly helps my personal playing. - The right posture is the key to relaxed, painless and lifelong playing. - Very good content indeed. Thank you.
Thanks a million Andre. I just got one of these, and this video was super helpful. Keep up the good work. Oh and im 67 years old , this is going to be a life saver for me
It’s a great topic. This is what can keep you playing for your whole life. It’s definitely an under-discussed topic. I went through a 6 year journey with repetitive strain injuries and rehab, physio, osteopathy, and relearning how to play. A tip I have that worked for me when playing standing up… Change your strap height often. An inch up or down really makes the areas that are under strain move around. Because it’s REPETITIVE strain, it’s less likely to happen if you change things regularly.
I have fibromyalgia, so I'm in pain doing anything. I recently got a bass guitar and have been scouring the internet for ways to be more comfortable playing. This is a great video! Thank you!
I am an advanced metal player. I can easily play for many hours straight while practicing or developing riffs. I have preferred the classical position since I was a beginner player. Being comfortable is important! I absolutely rely on a foot stool in every seated setting. I am here to research different products. I have SI joint pain and neck pain flare ups from playing a lot. I am hoping to find a better solution than the foot stool.
On an old post here - must say I just found your chanel and love your content. Now, I've been playing (on and off) for 30 + years. Got into jazz a few years ago and have been practicing for at least 90 minutes every day since. I read somewhere that it is advantageous to practice in the same position you would play in (standing some times) so i started practicing seated with a strap, kinda high and tight - with the guitar resting on the side of my thigh. I play a old school jazz box - not the biggest but big enough (16" wide, 2 and 3/4" thick) and have less physical issues playing this way then I ever had playing in the past. Maybe as you say, if I were playing 4 or 5 hours a day (i do once or twice a week) I would develop neck and back issues, but I think the half resting on the thigh eases the burden. That said, you are dead on about posture, and im tempted to try your device. Great stuff!
Basically one of the main reason why I really want a strandberg is the posture, and comfort. Since I believe those two factors is the most important matters in performance playing.
Your posture is very important. I have hand problems and finger problems. The correct posture mitigates the pain a lot. I invested in the preformaxe and it does make a big difference.
Thank you, thank you! I'm 6'3", and playing sitting with good posture is very diificult. After seeing Tim Pierce's video about the Performaxe, i started to research other videos. I have been having progressively worse wrist issues due to poor posture and arthritists, and the Performaxe will really fit the bill. I have tried other options with little success.
Foot stool and a strap works fine for me. Keeps the guitar in position and it won't flop forward. When you have to stand and play the strap is all you've got anyway!
Really really important to have good posture. Any injury will mess up everything. I had a wrist and hand paralysis for a few months and had to learn to use my wrist again. This wasn't caused by playing guitar by the way. But it gave me a totally new perspective on good posture and really important, know when to stop / stretch. Learning that playing guitar should never ever hurt is an important lesson. I usually sit with the guitar over my left leg and use a footstool. I think I'm going to invest in a performAxe. I'm really enjoying your videos Andre. Your doing an amazing job. Thanks for that.
Considering buying Performaxe for myself. I already spent so much money on the doctors, so it's price doesn't seem high at all. Great video, really deserves a like and a comment
I worked in the coal mines for about 10 years, and I have had to lift heavy things and had heavy things dropped on my hands and have some issues with cramps but never anything major. I never thought about my health and posture and things like that, but this is eye opening and something I want to try so I can play all my life
I signed up for Martin Taylor’s Artistworks course once upon a time and the biggest game changer I got from that was adopting a classical playing position with a foot stool. Made fretting easier and got rid of fatigue. Also forced me to sit up straight. Teles sit great in the position, btw.
Great video and an important topic. I am battling my telecaster at this very moment (taking a break to write this comment). It is a real drag when practice is spent adjusting your shoulder, neck, arm, etc...now in search of a guitar that lets me focus on playing!
I saw this video months ago, and have been trying to place an order for one since February Finally managed to order one!! Now to wait for the FedEx guy haha
I would love a video on seats/chairs. I’m a cripple (MS) so I sit to play, and currently use a drum throne, but there must be a better option. Bassist playing a Mustang lower than I should.
I just want to thank you for doing all the leg work (pun intended) that you've done regarding seated playing posture with ergonomic guitars and guitar supports. I thought that I'd delved pretty deeply into this stuff myself, but you've outdone me! This current video has convinced me to try the Performaxe again. I bought one a few years ago but returned it because I couldn't achieve the posture I was after. But I've learned a lot since then, and am sill not wholly satisfied with what I've been using (either a support from Ukraine called the HBNarrow or a large Dynarette cushion Velcroed to the bottom of my Tele.) You've identified most if not all of the issues involved. Just wanted to say thanks. Joey Goldstein - Toronto
FYI The HBElectro is a metal contraption (currently out of stock) with clamps that's designed to achieve a classical playing position with a solid body guitar on the left thigh. It doesn't work on the right thigh. I use the large Dynarette on either thigh depending on what I'm working on. Both systems require me to use a shoulder strap for stability. And I just went to the Performaxe web site and they're sold out until further notice. Bummer.
I actually just ordered one of these. One of my Uni teachers swore by them. Also, I would be highly interested in a vid about all things ergonomic, chairs postural considerations, likely a fully nerded out video covering every area of ergonomics. I’m 40 now, been playing for 27 years, and have had a few scary run ins with rsi’s. also have some persistent postural problems caused by long hours of practice. But I’ve been really looking into ergonomics and optimal practice postures for a while. Looked into some fancy chairs too like the Qor360 active chair. Would love to hear more of your discoveries in this area. 😊
@@andrefluddI may just… the performaxe just arrived today, still trying to find the ideal position on my JP15, but it’s already a huge improvement over the foot stool
I suffer from tendonitis which can be very painful, I learned the hard way that posture is very important! Also are warmups and stretcing/ exercising arm muscles
This is why classical position is my go to way to play when sitting. It was a revelation that made playing so comfortable, and all because I started playing V shapes.
Great lesson! I love to practice, and posture and injury prevention is so important. Sitting or standing, I like my guitar strapped up high, centered on my chest with more of the guitar over my left side than my right. I sit up straight, try to stay relaxed and reduce tension in my wrists and hands. When I play while sitting, I like to have a footstool under my left foot classical style, but my guitar doesn't really touch my left thigh. The only problem is that if I am sitting and don't have a strap, I really want to elevate my left foot to raise the guitar I'm playing. Really don't like to hold it on my right leg anymore.
That’s def a great posture to keep. That’s my preferred posture when I’m performing anything with an acoustic instrument, chord Melodies etc. thanks for the comment.
Regarding Strandberg, if you use the smaller curved part below the volume/tone controls on a strandberg on the outer part of the right leg, you get what (to me at least) is the most comfortable position, it is higher than the positions that was showed on the strandbergs in this video, similar to what the last guy in the strandberg examples does, but more to the right. The neck becomes just really high and close to the body. Most comfortable guitar I've ever had.
@@andrefludd Oh that's funny, I remember I saw a video of someone talking about that feature exactly, and wondered why didn't you mention it too..... now I realise it was you :))
Listen up guys this is excellent knowledge. I had to figure this out on my own and it really cost me plenty of time I could've spent playing/practicing with good posture.
Got mine a while back, waited so long with no word I thought I got scammed. It was well worth the wait, just wish they communicated more. I play classical style and love this thin. I can't stand those footrest things, and this eliminates the need for those. Best item I have bought in a while for my playing.
Hello again, Andre. I just wanted to let you know that in spite of my previous experience with the Performaxe where I ordered one and then returned it after being unable to achieve the playing posture I was after at that time, I've just ordered and received another one, largely based on me seeing this video of yours a few months ago. At that time I was going through a thing where because of nerve problems in my hands I had concluded that I'd need to completely change my sitting posture to something like that of a classical guitarist. In the interim I've reassessed the need for that posture and have gone back to placing the guitar on my right thigh. I have a Dynarette cushion that I Velcro onto the the body of the guitar for stability and optimal placement for balance. And that system works pretty well, although it's a bit ugly looking and the Velcro stuck on the guitar is bound to mess up the finish eventually. I'm using partscasters and the finish is not as big a deal for me as posture is. At any rate... I ordered another Performaxe a couple of months ago which just arrived today and I've been tinkering with it for a couple of hours now. I'm still unable to achieve as good a posture (on the right thigh) as I can with the Dynarette/Velcro system. But I am in the ballpark and could probably switch to the Performaxe on a regular basis w/o too much trouble. In this video, you seem to be able to achieve a sharper angle with your guitar than I can with my guitars with Tele bodies, and I can't really see why that is. It's probably because the lower horn on your guitar is a bit longer than the lower horn on a Tele or Strat body. In order to achieve anything like the neck angle I want, I have to position the Performaxe as close to the end of that lower horn as possible as well as as low as possible on the horn, and even then the angle is not quite steep enough. Also, my guitars don't balance as well as your's does in this video and become neck heavy, so I need to use a shoulder strap too. But I've also discovered recently that my main Tele is actually fairly neck heavy to begin with. I plan on trying some lightweight vintage tuners on that guitar to see if it helps. I've got 18:1 ratio Grovers on there now. I plan on not returning the Performaxe this time. But if you've got any tips on how to optimize my experience with the Performaxe, I'd love to hear them. Thanks again for doing all the leg work you've done on this issue.
@@andrefludd Hi Andre I may have spoken too fast. lol It looks like I'll be sticking with my Dynarette and Velcro system after-all. I can't seem to get enough lift or a decent angle with the Performaxe. Plus, I've just discovered, and don't ask me how it took me this long, that my main Tele is quite neck heavy. I'll be experimenting with lighter vintage tuners and perhaps a bridge with more mass in the near future. It's not a huge issue when I'm seated and using a shoulder strap, and I really like this particular guitar. But I guess there still might be a Klein or a Strandberg in my future. Thanks again.
Cool video man, ive been wondering about that thing! Thanks for showing it so well. I don't have much money for extras at this point, but ive got lots of nuts bolts and fasteners, i never throw that kind of stuff away, and I've got lots of beautiful scraps of flame maple and figured cherry laying around. Im gonna make one! Being self taught, ive never really given correct posture much thought, but everything you said makes perfect sense. You've also got my thinking gears engaged and im pondering a body design that incorporates an adjustable lower cut away! Thanks man. I LOVE THIS CHANNEL!
Thanks for the support Steven! I love your idea for an adjustable body. I’ve seen a few different luthiers try it, but they always end up using metal. A wooden variation would be really cool. A bit more traditional looking.
@@andrefludd you've got me day dreaming now about a guitar with a down tured lower cut, like a parker, seperate from the body though, fitted to the body with a wooden dowel as a fulcrum, and able to be raised and lowered exactly in the fasion of your device there. I'll be at the drawing board tonight.
I play standing only. Been doing that for many years. At first it was surprisingly difficult I wear it up high like a toddler’s bib! I don’t care if I look like I’m in a do-wop band in the late 50s lol. I can’t understand how ppl play it strung low I convinced myself that it would help with mindfulness lol But I figured what the hell it may save my back and that’s what you do performing anyway so…
@@andrefludd this is so underrated. I know a lot of people are put off by the price but with this build quality this is a lifetime purchase. The benefits are massive, this is a no brainer for anyone that can afford it.
I've got a factory job that has me doing 3 12hr shifts/week and my hands are pretty sore at the end of day. I don't usually feel like working out or practicing guitar/bass. I've been practicing bass on my off days and the stretches you have to do on the first five frets really can get my wrist burning. I guess I'll definitely have to start practicing standing up. If the performaxe comes back in stock I might check one out. Take care of yourselves out there.
This is a great topic, and I have asked to be notified when the product is back in stock. In the meantime, I find for my guitars that are less than ideal in regards to position (Les Paul types), a piece of anti-slide carpet underlay material on my lap works wonders re: keeping the guitar in position and stopping it from sliding about.
@@andrefludd No problem, The addition of the small anti slip material makes my Hamer Special FM and PRS Mira far more playable sitting and recording. I find Strat and Tele guitars better overall ergonomically, but when I need that fatter sound the anti-slip material makes it possible.
scalloped frets are really good for reducing hand tension and increasing playing efficiency. You have less tension in the tendons while the wrist is at extreme amgles so less injury.
I always wear a guitar strap and make sure it's at the same height whether standing or sitting. I have to wear it high like a nerd to play comfortably, I do not understand how people can play comfortably with guitar hanging so low. I also switched to sitting in an office chair instead of on the couch for longer playing sessions and this has helped limit fatigue. Lastly I switched to always playing headless guitars.
I hear ya. Always wondered how people play with the guitar so low. Unless I'm playing power chords or simple stuff I can't play that low. I'm a fellow need player. Made me chuckle when I saw that
As someone with back pains, and hand tendinitis, and had 3 broken fingers (I started playing left handed), I can’t emphasize enough ergonomics and just generally taking care of yourself. I also play classicals so I have the footrest, pillow and suction cup thing but yeah they don’t work for electric to well. I’ve never seen this tho so I may have to invest in that. Until now an offset guitar with a nice properly adjusted strap seemed like the best option.
I love your format. I love the phases idea. Its what i do when i pickup a guitar. Very thorough and detailed. I guess this is a project guitar. Make a guitar your own. Kind of like Harley benton. Great review.
Most useful video ever. Thank you so much. Most useful guitar discussion I've ever heard. Can't get better if you can't practice. Unfortunately it's sold out right now but hopefully available again soon!
I have tried several different lifts, attachments, etc. None of them really fix the real problem though, which is the lower bout of the guitar. A real ergo guitar has that removed, so that the guitar can sit perfectly balance in the right position. Check out Forshage, Klein, etc.
Thank you so much for creating this detailed video about guitar ergonomics! This topic is often put in second place. I knew these products thinking and I also got some of them. But the Performaxe is really the best (and most expensive) solution. Hopefully, there are soon cheaper options.
@@Phoboss32 yes I have! Darn I forgot to mention that one, it’s a lot cheaper than the performaxe, but I feel like the performaxe is easier to adjusted and switch between instruments. Thanks for mentioning.
Yea I have a knot in my lower back and fatigue in my hip flexor from sitting and playing and not paying attention to the tension taking place in my body. I also have carpel tunnel so my hands go numb constantly. I am now trying to remedy these issues so I can continue playing ! It’s very frustrating to be honest
Thanks for the video! I was looking at some of those classical style rests to make playing my Jackson Rhoads V more bearable while seated. This looks like may be the best solution available.
I’ve looked really hard and couldn’t find anything else like this. Flying Vs are pretty tricky huh? Do you usually use a strap and sit with it over the leg?
@@andrefludd exactly, that's what I do, use a strap and sit with it over one leg. That puts the guitar in kind of a classical position which is fine for me but I hate having to use a strap. Yeah Vs are a pain to play at home, probably wasn't the smartest choice for me. I love the way it balances standing up though.
Great video with important information! Thank you! I've been playing for 60 years and can attest to the importance of posture when guitaring. Although I personally think you should have included a link for those shoes; they do look cool and comfortable. ;-)
Excellent video! I'm a software developer and getting back into guitar after many years of not playing. That makes me a hand/wrist biathlete I guess. :) I was almost on disability because of intersection syndrome in my hand/wrist, and eventually worked out a keyboard that didn't aggravate things. (ZSA moonlander tented to 50+ degrees.) Now that I'm getting back into guitar, I'm obviously very sensitive about my wrist position. It's boggling how little info there is on guitar ergonomics. The industry is overwhelmingly driven by tradition over engineering, which is quite frustrating. IMHO, the perfect ergo guitar would have the body shape remniscent of a strandberg - particularly that leg cutout curve, but larger. I also like what Strandberg does with their asymmetric neck shape, but wish they fanned the frets differently - perpendicular to the 7th fret or so would seem more natural to me. I'm not completely sold on headless yet either. I suspect just a light headstock, something minimal akin to Parker, would do if it was carefully balanced with the body, and would also allow more flexibility for the body shape. Guess I'll have to experiment in the wood shop if I ever want to see such an instrument though.
So far, I’m loving my Klein. More on that soon. It’s def a toss up between Strandberg and Klein for me so far in terms of most comfortable. Also my Klein has a headstock which I do like.
Posture is important. Hand position. Vibrato swing might not be what you expect. These are all issues that can cause injuries over time. Osteoarthritis like I'm negotiating. I would suggest moving to a classical posture so that your trunk is facing straight ahead and not twisted.
Been playing 54 years, self taught, gigging as much as possible, and posture and comfort are essential. Now at the age and fitness level where my really heavy guitars don't get out much. When seated, I never play without a strap, being more rotund then yourself, I find the strap is more secure.
Very nice idea and tool.....I remember several times seeing Steve Howe perform live with Yes and he had a guitar on a stand that held the guitar in playing position without a need to have it attached to your body at all....I saw Santana do the same with his classical guitar...just walk up to it and play it like a keyboard only in guitar position...this tool of yours seems very practical.....I sit with a strap most of the time and try to never cross my legs when playing. Terrible for the circulation in my view.
Interesting and useful video. It provokes a question in my mind. Since the human body hasn't changed in the roughly 70 years since the electric guitar first came into use circa 1950, it makes sense that all the ergonomic issues we face today existed as well back when the basic body shapes (e.g. Strat, Tele, LP etc.) were first designed. So why did they design them that way? Was it because they were focused on designing a pleasing appearance for marketing reasons? Or maybe they envisioned the electric guitar as an instrument that would be primarily played by people who were standing and, therefore, would have the strap as a positioning aid? Maybe there is no good answer to the question.
I think they designed it based on acoustic guitar shapes which were designed based on classical instruments which were designed for acoustics haha. It’s a long rabbit hole.
After having played classical exclusively for a period of 25 years or so, I find I am unable to play with the guitar in a "normal" position. So, I hold my guitar weirdly. I place the lower bout on my right leg, with my Telecasters this is right where the cable jack is--I use a flat 90 degree cable, and I hold it in place with my upper arm. I like having the headstock even with my eyes. Obviously, if I let go of the guitar in this position, it will fall off my lap. Looking forward to getting one of these things.
this is why i always just wear a guitar strap keeping the guitar or bass at the appropriate height, that way if i'm sitting or standing it's the exact same placement
@@andrefludd this is pretty cool as well, but i get ocd about having every instrument ready to go and this would open the door to buying 8 million of these things which is primarily for sitting where a guitar strap is performance ready... lol
I would like to hear about your experience with guitar chairs as relates to back strain from guitar. What is the chair you are using in the video? I am interested in a chair that the arms flip up out of the way, like the chair you're using appears to do.
Dude I been wondering what that thing was that's always attached to the bottom of your guitar. Pretty keen on it seeing as it looks to make seated playing way more comfortable.
Footstool would with the other leg though? (Left leg for right guitar). Probably same category as the pillow, okay but not the best solution. In particular for electrics, a strap button is usually digging into the lower leg in this posture.
Footstool only works for me when playing classical. Only electrics I have that really lend themselves to being played "high up" are my Yamaha SG1000 and my archtop. The rest I prefer low down.
First time viewer. Great video. Just learned about the Performaxe and your video provided me with all the info I needed. Love your vibe and entire delivery - smart, talented, informative - the whole kit. Thank you.
i started playing classical guitar, so when i finally switched to electric - i just Cannot play it without any tools to elevate the neck..Its just so uncomfortable and bends the wrist in an unnatural way So I have a footstool, a suction-cup support (unfortunately it does not fit the electric guitar), I even have a Performance Stand (its a support that holds a guitar in place while standing up, like a tripod for camera or something just for guitar). But while sitting - the thing i use the most is a cushion, though i place it on the left leg - it seems to me that this creates less tension for the back and shoulders, just like in the picture of this guy at 6:38 . Great to know that there is an alternative!, never heard about this product before. Its a little bit expensive, but maybe worth it
Andre, Using your fretting hand thumb opens up a plethora of chord shapes and techniques that would otherwise be very tricky but is it a bad idea to do if you already have wrist pain which can worsen by not being able to keep the fretting hand relaxed?
You can adapt to almost anything you do repeatedly. I would say experiment with it slowly over a long period of time and you should develop a healthy pain free technique
I had a terrible spine injury, could not sit for 2-3 months at all, not even for 5 minutes.. so I bought a guitar performance stand to practise while standing. Now that - is absolutely the most UNDERRATED thing in a guitar world !. But there are so few options to choose from!! They are mainly for accoustic (thats what i bought - an accouatic guitar performance stand.) And i had to break it, unscrew and glue some cardbord to fit the electric 🤔🤔 Why nobody talks about these things? Why its so unpopular? Its so good for dynamic practise but also performing.. you can lower or lift your guitar, change the angle how you want it and feel 0 weight of the guitar... Why nobody produces them for an affordable price? I dont get it.. i know "Viking guitar stands" make them for electrics as well, but could not spend so much money at that time.. i got my accoustic stand for 30$ and its not great, but i see a huge potential there.. more expensive ones designed for electric must be sooo good 🤩
So I've got a strandberg and love being able to comfortably play in a more classical style position. I just got a new schecter Can you use this performaxe to position a guitar like that (much like the guitar in your video) into a classical style without needing a foot stool?
V guitar, horn between legs, most comfortable position for me. Can be with or without strap. When i stand up guitar is basically in the same position when i sit down.
That’s cool. Not sexy yet if get 1. My hands got messed up playing 8 string or 5 string bass. I totally relate. Extensive jazz or bar chords can be beast. I try to play riffs that have breaks or variety. Like it allows points in the riff so you have breathing room to rest. Interesting topic.
i have broken both wrists twice, i cannot play with a guitar slung below my waste , my wrsit just doesnt rotate in some ways. i have to have the guitar at a perfect 45 about 4 inches above my waste in order to get perfect hand position.
We'll u got me hooked on Parker's, doubt ur steering us wrong. My only concern is, and I see u using it on multiple guitars worth thousands, it won't do any damage to my guitars, finish, binding, nothing?
I noticed that when you have the Performaxe on, the corner of the device looks like it's digging on top of your leg. Does it start to hurt after a long time?
Andre, I really want to thank you for making this video. It’s one of the most important subjects few ever talk about. I have horrible tendinitis from playing for hours on end even though I use a foot rest and hold my electric guitar on my left knee in classical position, sometimes with my legs crossed, sometimes on my right knee legs crossed. I also use compression gloves and sleeves when the pain gets bad enough. We just don’t think about ergonomics when we’re young and now everything hurts. I will certainly check out that fascinating attachable rest you’re using as none of my solutions work entirely. Excellent video, my friend!
Thank you for the support, sir! The injury I got a couple years ago, I was still only in my mid 20s. It feel like it was a warning sign to get smarter, so I take this all much more seriously now! I hope to help others before they need any type of medical intervention.
I'm 79, been playing for more than 50 years, and had major back surgery in the mid-1970s. I haven't played guitar while standing in decades, and have sold or traded some guitars because they were simply uncomfortable to play while sitting. Weight is always an issue (under 8 lbs. as a minimum, under 7 lbs. is even better). If I could afford one (I can't), one of the arguments in favor of an early Parker Fly is that some of them weigh less than 6 lbs. I have a P-44 in Mahogany, that's just under 7 lbs. I tolerate it because it's a Parker. I've never been a fan of big dreadnought acoustics because they lack (A) a belly cut; and (B) a forearm chamfer, both of which make it easier on me to play for extended periods. For that reason, most (but not all) of my guitars are solid-body electrics, where those kinds of body mods are often part of the package, and I always, always play with a guitar strap.
You are a real credit to the guitar world.
Thank you, sir! Very much appreciated!
I am fortunate to own several Strandbergs. As a guitarist with 45 years of gigging and two carpal tunnel surgeries behind me, the ergonomic design of Strandberg has been a blessing. I’ve no doubt those guitars will extend the years I am able to play
I’m happy they’ve worked for you! Great instruments. In fact, I’m going to have a whole series on them in 2023
@@andrefludd I am looking forward to that!
André, you're the only TH-camr I've seen that's discussed ergonomics, which is mind bending. I've always impressed upon my students (when I taught) how important this is, as it can lead to chronic injury, or worse.
Liked and subbed!
That topic of posture is of the highest importance. Rarely talked about. - You really nail the details. - The cushioned classical position truly helps my personal playing. - The right posture is the key to relaxed, painless and lifelong playing. - Very good content indeed. Thank you.
Thanks for the support!
Thanks a million Andre. I just got one of these, and this video was super helpful. Keep up the good work. Oh and im 67 years old , this is going to be a life saver for me
Definitely interested in more posture videos and chair/stool reviews!
It’s a great topic. This is what can keep you playing for your whole life. It’s definitely an under-discussed topic.
I went through a 6 year journey with repetitive strain injuries and rehab, physio, osteopathy, and relearning how to play.
A tip I have that worked for me when playing standing up… Change your strap height often. An inch up or down really makes the areas that are under strain move around. Because it’s REPETITIVE strain, it’s less likely to happen if you change things regularly.
That’s a great piece of advice!
I will include this advice in my playing this month. Thanks for the bit of wisdom.
thanx a lot!!!
lovely greetings from germany and from a german musician
Very thorough presentation/demo. Thank you Andre. You are very well spoken. I'm glad I checked out your video.
Thanks for watching!
Hi Andre. I've just bought one of these due to neck and back issues whilst playing. Absolute game changer for me. Thanks for the content.
Congrats! I’m glad it’s working out for you!
I have fibromyalgia, so I'm in pain doing anything. I recently got a bass guitar and have been scouring the internet for ways to be more comfortable playing. This is a great video! Thank you!
I am an advanced metal player. I can easily play for many hours straight while practicing or developing riffs. I have preferred the classical position since I was a beginner player. Being comfortable is important! I absolutely rely on a foot stool in every seated setting. I am here to research different products. I have SI joint pain and neck pain flare ups from playing a lot. I am hoping to find a better solution than the foot stool.
On an old post here - must say I just found your chanel and love your content.
Now, I've been playing (on and off) for 30 + years. Got into jazz a few years ago and have been practicing for at least 90 minutes every day since. I read somewhere that it is advantageous to practice in the same position you would play in (standing some times) so i started practicing seated with a strap, kinda high and tight - with the guitar resting on the side of my thigh. I play a old school jazz box - not the biggest but big enough (16" wide, 2 and 3/4" thick) and have less physical issues playing this way then I ever had playing in the past. Maybe as you say, if I were playing 4 or 5 hours a day (i do once or twice a week) I would develop neck and back issues, but I think the half resting on the thigh eases the burden. That said, you are dead on about posture, and im tempted to try your device. Great stuff!
Thanks for the support!
I have a Dynarette and ran into exactly the problems you demonstrate. My Performaxe is due to arrive in today's mail and I can't wait! 😃
Basically one of the main reason why I really want a strandberg is the posture, and comfort. Since I believe those two factors is the most important matters in performance playing.
Agreed 100%. I’m still going to give a Strandberg a full 100 hour test at some point. But over the last 2 years, the performaxe has been all I needed
Your posture is very important. I have hand problems and finger problems. The correct posture mitigates the pain a lot. I invested in the preformaxe and it does make a big difference.
Thank you, thank you! I'm 6'3", and playing sitting with good posture is very diificult. After seeing Tim Pierce's video about the Performaxe, i started to research other videos. I have been having progressively worse wrist issues due to poor posture and arthritists, and the Performaxe will really fit the bill. I have tried other options with little success.
Can't thank you enough, i was so frustrated due to injury playing guitar. I will try all causes to continue playing guitar without further injury.
Foot stool and a strap works fine for me. Keeps the guitar in position and it won't flop forward. When you have to stand and play the strap is all you've got anyway!
Really really important to have good posture. Any injury will mess up everything. I had a wrist and hand paralysis for a few months and had to learn to use my wrist again. This wasn't caused by playing guitar by the way. But it gave me a totally new perspective on good posture and really important, know when to stop / stretch. Learning that playing guitar should never ever hurt is an important lesson. I usually sit with the guitar over my left leg and use a footstool. I think I'm going to invest in a performAxe. I'm really enjoying your videos Andre. Your doing an amazing job. Thanks for that.
Thank you!
Considering buying Performaxe for myself. I already spent so much money on the doctors, so it's price doesn't seem high at all. Great video, really deserves a like and a comment
I worked in the coal mines for about 10 years, and I have had to lift heavy things and had heavy things dropped on my hands and have some issues with cramps but never anything major. I never thought about my health and posture and things like that, but this is eye opening and something I want to try so I can play all my life
I hope it helps you out!
I signed up for Martin Taylor’s Artistworks course once upon a time and the biggest game changer I got from that was adopting a classical playing position with a foot stool. Made fretting easier and got rid of fatigue. Also forced me to sit up straight. Teles sit great in the position, btw.
Great advice!
I love the Performaxe! I've got a Strandberg for the ergonomics, but I still LOVE Strats. So this helped bridge some of that gap.
Great video and an important topic. I am battling my telecaster at this very moment (taking a break to write this comment). It is a real drag when practice is spent adjusting your shoulder, neck, arm, etc...now in search of a guitar that lets me focus on playing!
I saw this video months ago, and have been trying to place an order for one since February
Finally managed to order one!! Now to wait for the FedEx guy haha
I would love a video on seats/chairs. I’m a cripple (MS) so I sit to play, and currently use a drum throne, but there must be a better option. Bassist playing a Mustang lower than I should.
I just want to thank you for doing all the leg work (pun intended) that you've done regarding seated playing posture with ergonomic guitars and guitar supports.
I thought that I'd delved pretty deeply into this stuff myself, but you've outdone me!
This current video has convinced me to try the Performaxe again.
I bought one a few years ago but returned it because I couldn't achieve the posture I was after.
But I've learned a lot since then, and am sill not wholly satisfied with what I've been using (either a support from Ukraine called the HBNarrow or a large Dynarette cushion Velcroed to the bottom of my Tele.)
You've identified most if not all of the issues involved.
Just wanted to say thanks.
Joey Goldstein - Toronto
FYI The HBElectro is a metal contraption (currently out of stock) with clamps that's designed to achieve a classical playing position with a solid body guitar on the left thigh.
It doesn't work on the right thigh.
I use the large Dynarette on either thigh depending on what I'm working on.
Both systems require me to use a shoulder strap for stability.
And I just went to the Performaxe web site and they're sold out until further notice.
Bummer.
Glad I could be of help, Joey!
I actually just ordered one of these. One of my Uni teachers swore by them. Also, I would be highly interested in a vid about all things ergonomic, chairs postural considerations, likely a fully nerded out video covering every area of ergonomics. I’m 40 now, been playing for 27 years, and have had a few scary run ins with rsi’s. also have some persistent postural problems caused by long hours of practice.
But I’ve been really looking into ergonomics and optimal practice postures for a while. Looked into some fancy chairs too like the Qor360 active chair. Would love to hear more of your discoveries in this area. 😊
That’s exactly what I do in my course. I cover everything from angle to tools, sitting, standing, etc. Check it out if you get a chance.
@@andrefluddI may just… the performaxe just arrived today, still trying to find the ideal position on my JP15, but it’s already a huge improvement over the foot stool
@@AaronFordMusic Very happy for you!
I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THE GUITAR IN THE BACKGROUND..WITH THE NUMBER'S ON THE FRET'S... A PARKER GUITAR..I BELIEVE????
I suffer from tendonitis which can be very painful, I learned the hard way that posture is very important! Also are warmups and stretcing/ exercising arm muscles
100%. Especially since I like to practice first thing in the morning, warming up is crucial!
Somehow one of the most ergonomic designs is the humble V shape. Makes a perfect 45 degree headstock angle in the lap.
Thanks for the video, I spend so much time hunched over my guitar without ever giving it a second thought.
Glad I could help!
This is why classical position is my go to way to play when sitting. It was a revelation that made playing so comfortable, and all because I started playing V shapes.
Great lesson! I love to practice, and posture and injury prevention is so important. Sitting or standing, I like my guitar strapped up high, centered on my chest with more of the guitar over my left side than my right. I sit up straight, try to stay relaxed and reduce tension in my wrists and hands. When I play while sitting, I like to have a footstool under my left foot classical style, but my guitar doesn't really touch my left thigh. The only problem is that if I am sitting and don't have a strap, I really want to elevate my left foot to raise the guitar I'm playing. Really don't like to hold it on my right leg anymore.
That’s def a great posture to keep. That’s my preferred posture when I’m performing anything with an acoustic instrument, chord Melodies etc. thanks for the comment.
@@andrefludd Thank you for the motivation and sharing your knowledge and experience! Really enjoying the journey.
I also try to to play using a classical style as well
Man, This is brilliant! Thank you so much! Sharing this to my music friends.
Regarding Strandberg, if you use the smaller curved part below the volume/tone controls on a strandberg on the outer part of the right leg, you get what (to me at least) is the most comfortable position, it is higher than the positions that was showed on the strandbergs in this video, similar to what the last guy in the strandberg examples does, but more to the right. The neck becomes just really high and close to the body. Most comfortable guitar I've ever had.
Agreed. Not sure if you saw but I later did an entire series on strandberg.
@@andrefludd Oh that's funny, I remember I saw a video of someone talking about that feature exactly, and wondered why didn't you mention it too..... now I realise it was you :))
Great video. I have often wondered why this subject doesn't get much discussion.
I usually end up crossing my knees or using a foot rest of some sort.
Glad it was helpful!
Listen up guys this is excellent knowledge. I had to figure this out on my own and it really cost me plenty of time I could've spent playing/practicing with good posture.
Thanks for the support and I can DEF relate!
Got mine a while back, waited so long with no word I thought I got scammed. It was well worth the wait, just wish they communicated more. I play classical style and love this thin. I can't stand those footrest things, and this eliminates the need for those. Best item I have bought in a while for my playing.
Hello again, Andre.
I just wanted to let you know that in spite of my previous experience with the Performaxe where I ordered one and then returned it after being unable to achieve the playing posture I was after at that time, I've just ordered and received another one, largely based on me seeing this video of yours a few months ago.
At that time I was going through a thing where because of nerve problems in my hands I had concluded that I'd need to completely change my sitting posture to something like that of a classical guitarist.
In the interim I've reassessed the need for that posture and have gone back to placing the guitar on my right thigh.
I have a Dynarette cushion that I Velcro onto the the body of the guitar for stability and optimal placement for balance.
And that system works pretty well, although it's a bit ugly looking and the Velcro stuck on the guitar is bound to mess up the finish eventually.
I'm using partscasters and the finish is not as big a deal for me as posture is.
At any rate... I ordered another Performaxe a couple of months ago which just arrived today and I've been tinkering with it for a couple of hours now.
I'm still unable to achieve as good a posture (on the right thigh) as I can with the Dynarette/Velcro system.
But I am in the ballpark and could probably switch to the Performaxe on a regular basis w/o too much trouble.
In this video, you seem to be able to achieve a sharper angle with your guitar than I can with my guitars with Tele bodies, and I can't really see why that is.
It's probably because the lower horn on your guitar is a bit longer than the lower horn on a Tele or Strat body.
In order to achieve anything like the neck angle I want, I have to position the Performaxe as close to the end of that lower horn as possible as well as as low as possible on the horn, and even then the angle is not quite steep enough.
Also, my guitars don't balance as well as your's does in this video and become neck heavy, so I need to use a shoulder strap too.
But I've also discovered recently that my main Tele is actually fairly neck heavy to begin with.
I plan on trying some lightweight vintage tuners on that guitar to see if it helps.
I've got 18:1 ratio Grovers on there now.
I plan on not returning the Performaxe this time.
But if you've got any tips on how to optimize my experience with the Performaxe, I'd love to hear them.
Thanks again for doing all the leg work you've done on this issue.
Glad to help! I hope it works out for you this time!
@@andrefludd Hi Andre
I may have spoken too fast. lol
It looks like I'll be sticking with my Dynarette and Velcro system after-all.
I can't seem to get enough lift or a decent angle with the Performaxe.
Plus, I've just discovered, and don't ask me how it took me this long, that my main Tele is quite neck heavy.
I'll be experimenting with lighter vintage tuners and perhaps a bridge with more mass in the near future.
It's not a huge issue when I'm seated and using a shoulder strap, and I really like this particular guitar.
But I guess there still might be a Klein or a Strandberg in my future.
Thanks again.
Cool video man, ive been wondering about that thing! Thanks for showing it so well. I don't have much money for extras at this point, but ive got lots of nuts bolts and fasteners, i never throw that kind of stuff away, and I've got lots of beautiful scraps of flame maple and figured cherry laying around. Im gonna make one! Being self taught, ive never really given correct posture much thought, but everything you said makes perfect sense. You've also got my thinking gears engaged and im pondering a body design that incorporates an adjustable lower cut away! Thanks man. I LOVE THIS CHANNEL!
Thanks for the support Steven! I love your idea for an adjustable body. I’ve seen a few different luthiers try it, but they always end up using metal. A wooden variation would be really cool. A bit more traditional looking.
@@andrefludd you've got me day dreaming now about a guitar with a down tured lower cut, like a parker, seperate from the body though, fitted to the body with a wooden dowel as a fulcrum, and able to be raised and lowered exactly in the fasion of your device there. I'll be at the drawing board tonight.
@@stevenpipes1555 let’s get it built for the channel :)
I play standing only. Been doing that for many years. At first it was surprisingly difficult
I wear it up high like a toddler’s bib! I don’t care if I look like I’m in a do-wop band in the late 50s lol.
I can’t understand how ppl play it strung low
I convinced myself that it would help with mindfulness lol
But I figured what the hell it may save my back and that’s what you do performing anyway so…
I always wear mine high haha. Thanks for the comment!
Thank you, Andre! Really wanted to ask about what that was. Appreciate you taking the time to make a video on it. Never saw one until your videos.
My pleasure, glad it was helpful!
Got mine today, based on your reviews. Love it already! I see they are already out of stock again!
Congrats! Really wish I had invented it 😂
@@andrefludd this is so underrated. I know a lot of people are put off by the price but with this build quality this is a lifetime purchase. The benefits are massive, this is a no brainer for anyone that can afford it.
I've got a factory job that has me doing 3 12hr shifts/week and my hands are pretty sore at the end of day. I don't usually feel like working out or practicing guitar/bass. I've been practicing bass on my off days and the stretches you have to do on the first five frets really can get my wrist burning. I guess I'll definitely have to start practicing standing up. If the performaxe comes back in stock I might check one out. Take care of yourselves out there.
This is a great topic, and I have asked to be notified when the product is back in stock. In the meantime, I find for my guitars that are less than ideal in regards to position (Les Paul types), a piece of anti-slide carpet underlay material on my lap works wonders re: keeping the guitar in position and stopping it from sliding about.
Great idea thanks for sharing!
@@andrefludd No problem, The addition of the small anti slip material makes my Hamer Special FM and PRS Mira far more playable sitting and recording. I find Strat and Tele guitars better overall ergonomically, but when I need that fatter sound the anti-slip material makes it possible.
scalloped frets are really good for reducing hand tension and increasing playing efficiency. You have less tension in the tendons while the wrist is at extreme amgles so less injury.
I tried that too! Very interesting feeling.
I'd definitely like another video about chairs/stools and back strain/proper posture!
It’s coming!
I always wear a guitar strap and make sure it's at the same height whether standing or sitting. I have to wear it high like a nerd to play comfortably, I do not understand how people can play comfortably with guitar hanging so low. I also switched to sitting in an office chair instead of on the couch for longer playing sessions and this has helped limit fatigue. Lastly I switched to always playing headless guitars.
Thanks for sharing!
I hear ya. Always wondered how people play with the guitar so low. Unless I'm playing power chords or simple stuff I can't play that low. I'm a fellow need player. Made me chuckle when I saw that
As someone with back pains, and hand tendinitis, and had 3 broken fingers (I started playing left handed), I can’t emphasize enough ergonomics and just generally taking care of yourself. I also play classicals so I have the footrest, pillow and suction cup thing but yeah they don’t work for electric to well. I’ve never seen this tho so I may have to invest in that. Until now an offset guitar with a nice properly adjusted strap seemed like the best option.
I'm just learning that about offsets this year and I'm absolutely in love.
I love your format. I love the phases idea. Its what i do when i pickup a guitar. Very thorough and detailed. I guess this is a project guitar. Make a guitar your own. Kind of like Harley benton. Great review.
Most useful video ever. Thank you so much. Most useful guitar discussion I've ever heard. Can't get better if you can't practice. Unfortunately it's sold out right now but hopefully available again soon!
Glad you enjoyed it! just jump on the waitlist. I bought a second one recently and I had to wait a few months, but I was able to get it eventually
I have tried several different lifts, attachments, etc. None of them really fix the real problem though, which is the lower bout of the guitar. A real ergo guitar has that removed, so that the guitar can sit perfectly balance in the right position. Check out Forshage, Klein, etc.
I spent the whole day hunched over my tele playing things that are challenging for me. My back is so sore!
Thank you so much for creating this detailed video about guitar ergonomics! This topic is often put in second place.
I knew these products thinking and I also got some of them. But the Performaxe is really the best (and most expensive) solution.
Hopefully, there are soon cheaper options.
Glad you found it helpful!
@@andrefludd Had you also tried NeckUp Guitar Support? Apparently, it’s also fitting for electric guitars.
@@Phoboss32 yes I have! Darn I forgot to mention that one, it’s a lot cheaper than the performaxe, but I feel like the performaxe is easier to adjusted and switch between instruments. Thanks for mentioning.
I got this for my ravelle style baritone. Hope it fares well.
The flying V is a super comfortable guitar to sit with. I don't know if that was the purpose of the shape.
thank you very much for this video!
Yea I have a knot in my lower back and fatigue in my hip flexor from sitting and playing and not paying attention to the tension taking place in my body. I also have carpel tunnel so my hands go numb constantly. I am now trying to remedy these issues so I can continue playing !
It’s very frustrating to be honest
Vidéo très intéressante sur un sujet des plus sensibles...Merci bien,
Thanks for the video! I was looking at some of those classical style rests to make playing my Jackson Rhoads V more bearable while seated. This looks like may be the best solution available.
I’ve looked really hard and couldn’t find anything else like this. Flying Vs are pretty tricky huh? Do you usually use a strap and sit with it over the leg?
@@andrefludd exactly, that's what I do, use a strap and sit with it over one leg. That puts the guitar in kind of a classical position which is fine for me but I hate having to use a strap. Yeah Vs are a pain to play at home, probably wasn't the smartest choice for me. I love the way it balances standing up though.
Great video with important information! Thank you! I've been playing for 60 years and can attest to the importance of posture when guitaring. Although I personally think you should have included a link for those shoes; they do look cool and comfortable. ;-)
Haha thanks :)
Excellent video! I'm a software developer and getting back into guitar after many years of not playing. That makes me a hand/wrist biathlete I guess. :) I was almost on disability because of intersection syndrome in my hand/wrist, and eventually worked out a keyboard that didn't aggravate things. (ZSA moonlander tented to 50+ degrees.) Now that I'm getting back into guitar, I'm obviously very sensitive about my wrist position. It's boggling how little info there is on guitar ergonomics. The industry is overwhelmingly driven by tradition over engineering, which is quite frustrating. IMHO, the perfect ergo guitar would have the body shape remniscent of a strandberg - particularly that leg cutout curve, but larger. I also like what Strandberg does with their asymmetric neck shape, but wish they fanned the frets differently - perpendicular to the 7th fret or so would seem more natural to me. I'm not completely sold on headless yet either. I suspect just a light headstock, something minimal akin to Parker, would do if it was carefully balanced with the body, and would also allow more flexibility for the body shape. Guess I'll have to experiment in the wood shop if I ever want to see such an instrument though.
So far, I’m loving my Klein. More on that soon. It’s def a toss up between Strandberg and Klein for me so far in terms of most comfortable. Also my Klein has a headstock which I do like.
Posture is important. Hand position. Vibrato swing might not be what you expect. These are all issues that can cause injuries over time. Osteoarthritis like I'm negotiating. I would suggest moving to a classical posture so that your trunk is facing straight ahead and not twisted.
Thanks for the comment!
Been playing 54 years, self taught, gigging as much as possible, and posture and comfort are essential. Now at the age and fitness level where my really heavy guitars don't get out much. When seated, I never play without a strap, being more rotund then yourself, I find the strap is more secure.
Totally understand!
Very nice idea and tool.....I remember several times seeing Steve Howe perform live with Yes and he had a guitar on a stand that held the guitar in playing position without a need to have it attached to your body at all....I saw Santana do the same with his classical guitar...just walk up to it and play it like a keyboard only in guitar position...this tool of yours seems very practical.....I sit with a strap most of the time and try to never cross my legs when playing. Terrible for the circulation in my view.
Yea, 20mins of that tops before legs start falling asleep. I’ve found this to be amazing or even the cheaper options I show will get the job done.
This is great, thanks!
Glad I could help!
Knees at a comfortable 90 degrees, straight back, tucked chin, classical style!
all great advice!
Interesting and useful video. It provokes a question in my mind. Since the human body hasn't changed in the roughly 70 years since the electric guitar first came into use circa 1950, it makes sense that all the ergonomic issues we face today existed as well back when the basic body shapes (e.g. Strat, Tele, LP etc.) were first designed. So why did they design them that way? Was it because they were focused on designing a pleasing appearance for marketing reasons? Or maybe they envisioned the electric guitar as an instrument that would be primarily played by people who were standing and, therefore, would have the strap as a positioning aid? Maybe there is no good answer to the question.
I think they designed it based on acoustic guitar shapes which were designed based on classical instruments which were designed for acoustics haha. It’s a long rabbit hole.
After having played classical exclusively for a period of 25 years or so, I find I am unable to play with the guitar in a "normal" position. So, I hold my guitar weirdly. I place the lower bout on my right leg, with my Telecasters this is right where the cable jack is--I use a flat 90 degree cable, and I hold it in place with my upper arm. I like having the headstock even with my eyes. Obviously, if I let go of the guitar in this position, it will fall off my lap. Looking forward to getting one of these things.
I have a Performaxe. It's one of the best things I've ever bought!
Same!
this is why i always just wear a guitar strap keeping the guitar or bass at the appropriate height, that way if i'm sitting or standing it's the exact same placement
Yea, I also did that for years. Great solution
@@andrefludd this is pretty cool as well, but i get ocd about having every instrument ready to go and this would open the door to buying 8 million of these things which is primarily for sitting where a guitar strap is performance ready... lol
💯 True ❤
I would like to hear about your experience with guitar chairs as relates to back strain from guitar. What is the chair you are using in the video? I am interested in a chair that the arms flip up out of the way, like the chair you're using appears to do.
Hey Don, I cover all of this information and a ton of other posture info in my teach yourself course over on my site.
Dude I been wondering what that thing was that's always attached to the bottom of your guitar. Pretty keen on it seeing as it looks to make seated playing way more comfortable.
It's my single best purchase maybe ever. I really wish I had invented it haha.
Bergs are still amazing and make Parker’s look like dinosaurs but will def be buying this item.
@@Murphmonster69 I agree Strandbergs are amazing. I Said it 3 times in the video ;).
Where can I get one?
Footstool would with the other leg though? (Left leg for right guitar). Probably same category as the pillow, okay but not the best solution. In particular for electrics, a strap button is usually digging into the lower leg in this posture.
Electrics are really tricky to figure out your best posture for. It def takes experimentation and patience.
Footstool only works for me when playing classical. Only electrics I have that really lend themselves to being played "high up" are my Yamaha SG1000 and my archtop. The rest I prefer low down.
I’m def a high up guy when I’m standing.
First time viewer. Great video. Just learned about the Performaxe and your video provided me with all the info I needed. Love your vibe and entire delivery - smart, talented, informative - the whole kit. Thank you.
i started playing classical guitar, so when i finally switched to electric - i just Cannot play it without any tools to elevate the neck..Its just so uncomfortable and bends the wrist in an unnatural way So I have a footstool, a suction-cup support (unfortunately it does not fit the electric guitar), I even have a Performance Stand (its a support that holds a guitar in place while standing up, like a tripod for camera or something just for guitar). But while sitting - the thing i use the most is a cushion, though i place it on the left leg - it seems to me that this creates less tension for the back and shoulders, just like in the picture of this guy at 6:38 . Great to know that there is an alternative!, never heard about this product before. Its a little bit expensive, but maybe worth it
Funny how there are so many options for classical and only 1 for electric! I guess classical guitar had a head start since it’s been around longer.
Thanks for the informative video. Can it be used on one's left leg also?
(I'd like to be able to play on my left leg without a foot stool ... or maybe I wouldn't. I don't really know. Lol)
Yes it can!
@@andrefludd Thanks forthe reply mate. I got one and it's awesome
I would grab one if it wasn’t 150$ I have a custom classical style KOA foot stool and it does similar stuff but this looks awesome
Andre, Using your fretting hand thumb opens up a plethora of chord shapes and techniques that would otherwise be very tricky but is it a bad idea to do if you already have wrist pain which can worsen by not being able to keep the fretting hand relaxed?
You can adapt to almost anything you do repeatedly. I would say experiment with it slowly over a long period of time and you should develop a healthy pain free technique
Hello. Silly question but did you ever work at the 14th street Guitar center going back say 15/16 years?
No I didn’t. But I’ve been there many times over the years haha.
@@andrefludd That must be it, way back when the staff was very knowledgeable hence my confusion. 👍
Hi Andre, thanks for this video. Are there any solutions for standing up? I find the guitar neck sinks and is flat which makes these issues worse.
Is that rubber that contacts with the guitar? I wonder what that will do for a nitro finish. Nitro is will react to anything
Check their website! I can only speak to my experience, which has been great!
I had a terrible spine injury, could not sit for 2-3 months at all, not even for 5 minutes.. so I bought a guitar performance stand to practise while standing. Now that - is absolutely the most UNDERRATED thing in a guitar world !. But there are so few options to choose from!! They are mainly for accoustic (thats what i bought - an accouatic guitar performance stand.) And i had to break it, unscrew and glue some cardbord to fit the electric 🤔🤔 Why nobody talks about these things? Why its so unpopular? Its so good for dynamic practise but also performing.. you can lower or lift your guitar, change the angle how you want it and feel 0 weight of the guitar... Why nobody produces them for an affordable price? I dont get it.. i know "Viking guitar stands" make them for electrics as well, but could not spend so much money at that time.. i got my accoustic stand for 30$ and its not great, but i see a huge potential there.. more expensive ones designed for electric must be sooo good 🤩
So I've got a strandberg and love being able to comfortably play in a more classical style position. I just got a new schecter Can you use this performaxe to position a guitar like that (much like the guitar in your video) into a classical style without needing a foot stool?
100%
Hi Andre. What about playing an electric guitar in a classical position without any accessories? Is that a partial solution?
Sure! As long as it’s working for you, but there are drawbacks for some people (myself included!)
Let me know how you usually practice seated. Guitar strap? Crossed leg? Have you figured something else out?
i just have the guitar on my right leg like the basic position.I havent really had issues with it.
Seated, with a strap - but I also use a footrest and hold the guitar in the 'classical' position.
Seated, with a strap - but I also use a footrest and hold the guitar in the 'classical' position.
V guitar, horn between legs, most comfortable position for me. Can be with or without strap. When i stand up guitar is basically in the same position when i sit down.
That’s cool. Not sexy yet if get 1. My hands got messed up playing 8 string or 5 string bass. I totally relate.
Extensive jazz or bar chords can be beast. I try to play riffs that have breaks or variety. Like it allows points in the riff so you have breathing room to rest. Interesting topic.
Thanks for this video, you inspired me to grab one of these until I can buy a strandberg.
And now I am watching your strandberg episodes 😂
Glad I could help!
Liked and subscribed
i have broken both wrists twice, i cannot play with a guitar slung below my waste , my wrsit just doesnt rotate in some ways. i have to have the guitar at a perfect 45 about 4 inches above my waste in order to get perfect hand position.
You've definately sold me on the performaxe, but it's been out of stock for months :.(
Gotta join the mailing list
Hello. Does the truss rod wheel on your Parker Acoustic get stuck on you?
Not yet, thankfully
From a kid from the 80s I wanted to play the guitar by my knees just like slash. I now play all guitars as if it were a classical.
Natural progression of things! Haha
We'll u got me hooked on Parker's, doubt ur steering us wrong. My only concern is, and I see u using it on multiple guitars worth thousands, it won't do any damage to my guitars, finish, binding, nothing?
And I have to ask, how did you get those numbers inlayed into your Parker?
I noticed that when you have the Performaxe on, the corner of the device looks like it's digging on top of your leg. Does it start to hurt after a long time?
There's never a moment of discomfort for me.