In this very first lesson of the Beginner Guitar Lesson course I am going to show you how to hold the guitar correctly. So many beginners don’t really think how important it is to hold the guitar correctly until they get to their very first injury.
Why so Important
Knowing how to hold the guitar is of paramount importance, so, if you are serious about learning how to play guitar the very first step should be understand the correct posture of your leg, right and left arm and how to seat correctly.
In this video I am going to show you what I think is the best way to hold the guitar. Take things step by step and don’t forget to adjust the position based on the type of guitar you play and the chair you use.
Which Leg?
If you are playing an acoustic or electric guitar, position the instrument on the right leg and lock it between the leg, body and right arm. You should feel that the guitar doesn’t move.
In this video I am seating on a couch I can feel my leg blocking the guitar. If I was seating on a higher stool I would probably use a foot stool.
Right Hand on Top of the Sound Hole
As a reference I like to keep my right hand on top of the sound hole.
I don’t really like to play to close to the bridge or close to the frets unless I am looking for a specific tone.
By keeping your hand around the sound hole you will be able to achieve the correct posture and pluck or strum the strings easily.
Left Hand Relaxed Without Stretching
You should also be able to position your left hand around the first position of the guitar neck (fret I) without necessarily stretch too much.
Position the thumb behind the neck and press down the first fret with the index finger. Keep the position of the left arm relaxed and natural.
No stretch? Perfect!
Quick Recap
- The guitar should be on the right leg.
- Right hand on top of the sound hole.
- Left hand and arm relaxed without stretching.
