Beginner Guitar Power/Barre Chord Question

Halloween Jack

Howdy,

Been learning guitar on my own for the last couple of months and going reasonably well. I have started learning power/barre chords and can play them well enough. However if playing a lot of these chords, i seem to develop fairly acute pain in my wrist.

My question is, i suppose, am i doing something wrong which is causing the pain, or am i simply using muscles that arent used often?

Any help much appreciated.

Darraghnormal

Rather than pushing your fingers against the frets use your thumb to provide leverage.

Owen

Biggest mistake I see with the few students I have who've tried it is their wrist position. You should try to rotate your hand around to the front of the fretboard so that your thumb is resting on the middle of the neck.

Halloween Jack

Many thanks for the responses lads, i fear i may have so re-learning to do. Suppose the value of real lessons would become apparent at some stage.

Malice

Make sure your hand is properly warmed up before playing. That should help.

Rigsby

Halloween Jack wrote: »

Suppose the value of real lessons would become apparent at some stage.

Yes, at your stage, a teacher is your best bet alright.

Malice_ wrote: »

Make sure your hand is properly warmed up before playing. That should help.

+100 to this. It is advisable to always warm up with gentle stretches (check You Tube) before and after a practice session.


Until you get a teacher, perhaps this You Tube link might help :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zd6RGiCZC6I

Halloween Jack

Many thanks again lads, think i'll book some lessons in the new year.