How to Hold a Guitar

How to Hold an Acoustic or Electric Guitar

1. Sit down with the guitar: Sit in a chair with a backrest or on a stool with no arms. Hold the guitar so that the bottom curve of the guitar body rests on your right leg if you're right-handed, or your left leg if you're left-handed.

2. Position the guitar: The guitar should be angled slightly upwards so that the neck is in a comfortable position for your left hand to reach the frets. The back of the guitar body should rest against your stomach.

3. Place your right arm over the guitar: Rest your forearm on the top of the guitar body near the strings. This will help you to control the strumming or picking of the strings.

4. Support the neck: Use your left hand to support the neck of the guitar. Your thumb should be on the back of the neck, and your fingers should wrap around the neck to press the strings against the frets.

5. Relax your shoulders: Keep your shoulders relaxed and avoid tensing up. This will help you play more comfortably and with less strain.

6. Adjust the strap: If you are playing a guitar with a strap, adjust it so that the guitar sits at a comfortable height for you. You should be able to play comfortably without having to hunch over or stretch too far.