Bass Aerobics by John Liebman. Is anyone familiar with this book ? Just curious if it’s a worthwhile investment. Wondering too if it would be helpful for those developing physical issues related to playing. I had when playing my String Bass w a German Bow, shoulder and forearm/wrist. But fortunately not with the bass guitar. Thought maybe a book that seems dedicated to proper physical form and physical exercise development might be useful?
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I don’t know it, but as someone who has suffered with arm problems from both upright and electric, any physical attention and training can be helpful!
I had a book of general stretches/posture/ergonomics for musicians. After all my issues showed up.
It was helpful.
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Remember the title? Trying to be pre-emptive.
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@greg4 this video helped me out a lot early on. https://youtu.be/uIYuqTsUlyM?feature=shared
I’m also trying to get into the habit of planting my thumb more in the middle of the neck and opening up the space between my thumb and fingers. This helps my hand to straighten out.
I also find that playing while sitting down is REALLY hard for me, it just puts my wrist in an awkward place.
So for real practice I like to stand and use a impact mat since my floor is concrete. I also like to wear shoes because if my feet/legs get sore I know I’m not going to practice as much.
I also have shoulders that I always tense up (even normally) so while I play I focus on dropping them down and relaxing my arms and hands. I’ve found that tense hands take about 50% of my skill away and it hurts!
It’s called The Athletic Musician: A Guide to Playing without Pain by Barbara Paull and Christine Harrison.
ISBN - 0810833565
I know it’s more hassle, but please try and order it from your local bookstore, if you have it!
May take a week, but it’s always worth it.
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I have the book and it’s not meant as literal as the title suggests. It’s not a book about pain prevention or how to obtain correct form when playing, but a book with 52 exercises.
That being said it’s a great book. Think more about it as practicing scales, but instead of just mind numbingly boring, you are playing actual melodies. There’s a play along track on their website that allows you to slow it down or speed it up. It covers many aspects from rock, funk, swing etc.
For general problems, go see a professional before it becomes chronic. Personally I like to massage both hands/forearms and some light stretching before playing. Then also consider doing making a warmup routine.
I’ve found that very helpful, as it really takes me out of my head and no matter the mood I was in, it empties my thoughts and gets me focused on my practice. Getting into playing something too complex/aggressive can really mess up your body without a proper warmup. Just like any exercising.
Greg Irwin has some interesting exercises as part of his “Finger Fitness” routine.
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