The Steel Guitar Forum

Howdy folks;

Does anybody know of any exercises for the hands,wrists, ankles and feet that would be good for playing the pedal steel?
It makes sense to me that if a person could keep these areas conditioned it would help them play the instrument more proficiently and fluently.

Awaiting any replys;
Pete

I attended a steel guitar seminar last week given by Joe Wright at the Florida steel guitar show. Joe has instructional material concerning drills and exercises regarding ankle and wrist movements for the pedal steel guitar. Joe is an inspiring player and teacher.


http://www.pedalsteel.com/joe/

Sizing up the average steel player, I'd say sit-ups are high on the exercise agenda.

I think Chris is on the right track.
Since we sit alot, I'd suggest a treadmill...

But playing steel really isn't that stressful physically - except when you're carrying it. Other than having a good seat with a backrest, probably the best thing to do is just play the thing.

12 oz. curls.

Pete,
I've got a hand routine you can try out. I got it from a guitarist about a month ago, and have already noticed some good results.
Drop me a line, and I'll get some pictures and a detailed description for you.
These are exercises you can do anywhere, anytime for the most part. I usually run through them a couple times a day, and they do help.
In the meantime, you can also stretch out your lower legs by standing in front of a wall just beyond arms reach. Keep your feet flat on the floor, and lean forward until your hands reach the wall. Using your arms for support, move your upper body slowly towards the wall, as if going down on a push-up. When you get to the point where you feel a slight burning in your calves, just below the knees, hold it there, (don't bounce) and then increase your angle as much as you can according to the level of discomfort. This will also stretch out the long tendon (achilles) between the calf, and heel. Ease into this one, and don't over do it. The most important thing is to hold it through the burn.

SIT UPS!!!!

every time I carry this stuff...

I think I need to do more weight training

The log in page of the Forum has some good ones..
Click on PSG Articles 1st one at the top is pedal steel Press. Click on it.. look down 4or5 there are part 1-2
PLUS there is lots of good stuff in there....
Praise be to b0b for the forum info.
Kenny

I use a Powerball gyro thingy,You can get one for about $23.00the hardest thing is starting it with the string,and switching hands

I'll second the Joe Wright recommendation. He really believes in training/conditioning. He breaks stuff down into simple movements that we all do & never think about, and focuses on training youyr body to do them efficently & accurately.

Casey

Bedroom aerobics always seem to help me..

Obliques...

Wayne Baker