Exercise 1

This is a classic exercise for players of all levels. For beginners it’s the best way to get accustomed to the fretboard and get their fingers moving. For intermediate and professionals it makes for a great warm up exercise.

Example 1: Start with 1^st fret on the 6th string and move up the strings playing 4 notes per string. After reaching 4^th fret on 1st string, move down the strings as in example 2. To maintain continuity in playing, after every cycle (ie. ex 1 and 2 ) move up the fretboard by 1/2 step (or 1 fret) and again repeat ex 1 and 2 in that order till you reach the 24^th/22^nd fret on your guitar. Make sure that you use all the four fingers of your fretting hand.

This exercise will help you overcome the problem of stiff fingers and help you play notes clearly particularly on the higher frets which are of smaller width.

Start with a slow tempo (80 beats per min). Once accuracy is attained you may gradually increase the speed. But do not compromise clarity for speed. Remember, accuracy first then speed.

Once this basic pattern is mastered, the scope for variation is paramount.