How do you build endurance

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Barry Nelson on November 22, 2009 at 3:10

playing in itself will build endurance. I'd make sure to stretch before and after playing. I didnt at first and I was sore in my bow shoulder.

Permalink Reply by Carole sease on February 9, 2010 at 22:56

HI Nlta, The left hand numbness is probably not due to lack of endurance, but to nerve compression. I would guess it's the median nerve as it travels through the carpal tunnel. Sounds like you may be playing with the wrist flexed (bent)too much. This, in conjunction with the supination that takes place, can cause pressure. You may need to ask a good classical violin teacher about left hand position. I am not a teacher, but a fiddler who is also a hand therapist. I would have to see you to diagnose this better, but this is my cyber guess. Good right hand positioning that will reduce tension in the arm may help the fatigue on the bow arm.
Let me know how it goes.
PS.I am very close to the same age as you and ,sadly, age could be a part of it though I refuse to believe it!

Permalink Reply by Carole sease on February 9, 2010 at 23:05

Addendum: Be sure to warm up slowly and take frequent breaks. Do some stretches that are in reverse of the position you are in when you play. I could write a book about this but these are some basics.

Permalink Reply by NIta on February 9, 2010 at 23:41

I thank you all for your good advice. As a classical guitarist for many years , I have always been careful about correct hand position and technique. I am doing much better now because I finally quit working and have more time to practice. In fact not working has so eased the stress on my hands and wrists that I have picked up the guitar again. I had given it up because of wrist problems. Turns out it wasnt' the guitar. It was the job. Of course fiddle is my main instrument now.
With more time for warmups and practice, my technique has really improved as has my intonation. Yayyyy for retiring.

Permalink Reply by NIta on February 9, 2010 at 23:45

Carol, my jury is out on the age thing. I still believe myself capable of much and refuse to submit to thinking 'old".
But then I see a photograph om myself I think "holy cow, who the heck is that old lady." I have listened to recordings of Segoviia in his 80's and while he was a bit slower, his sensitivity and interpretation was wonderful.
And when I can't fiddle anymore I'm going to make my grandkids and great grandkids sit and listen to storys about when the snow was 5 feet deep and all the roads went uphill.