Fingers stretching

by Phang
(Singapore)

I have difficulty to stretch and hold a note further down a fret without straining the fingers. I have been playing guitar for more than 10 yrs. (but not regular).

How and what can I do to improve this disability?

Appreciate if it could be overcome.
Thanks

Hi Phang,

One of the keys to stretching you've already touched on...being regular. You should practice stretching exercises on the guitar regularly but don't overdo it. If you feel pain rather than being slightly uncomfortable then it's time to stop.

Also, be consistent. Do a little bit every day rather than a lot in one go and then missing a week for example. This is always unwise. You need to have balance and consistency in all that you do.

Additionally, if your hands are too small, have you ever thought of getting a smaller but still good quality guitar? There's nothing wrong with playing a 5/8 or 3/4 size guitar especially these days when good quality guitars are easy to obtain.

Hope this has been of help.

Kind regards,
Trevor M.