Is going to gym limiting or strengthening my playing?

MetalHead

May be a silly question but I would like to get your feedback on this. I like to keep fit and gym regularly - mainly doing free weights. I have been trying to focus on practicing more but find it very hard to play after going to the gym as my forearms and hands are less responsive (obvious I know). So I try to practice before join to Gym or non Gym days. Im not a muscle head so I am of average build (No pumpkins under my arms and I do have a neck) but I am wondering if in the long run free weights are strengthening my playing or limiting it in any way?

Guy-Onraet

The way i see it, gym is great for your playing. It helps with body awareness, helping with posture and relaxation (as in - no tension while playing). You also feel better about yourself and look better ? As long as your aren't hurting yourself...

MetalHead

Thanks Guy, I found some other threads for anyone interested. Seems that using lighter weights and gloves with wrist straps helps relieve stress on the fingers but in general seems weight training is a good thing in moderation:

http://www.delcamp.net/forum/en/viewtopic.php?f=71&t=32844

[deleted]

Francis Viviers also had a thread on this the other day. Basically, what Guy said. Besides, strong fingers are better, no? Ask Bo Diddley...

Keira-WitherKay

wonder if steve vai works out....................... ???? nnaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhh

[deleted]

Hahahahahaha. Steve is SKINNY. But he does look fit.

TomCat

Keira WitherKay wrote: wonder if steve vai works out....................... ???? nnaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhh

? ?.......LOL

Guy-Onraet

Keira WitherKay wrote: wonder if steve vai works out....................... ???? nnaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhh

Steve looks fit and well (if not quite a spring chicken anymore). I'm sure he does more than just workout on stage ?

MetalHead

Keira WitherKay wrote: wonder if steve vai works out....................... ???? nnaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhh

I thought the same thing. I was really starting to think that I should rather be playing guitar during the time I normally workout. Im not getting any younger and I still have so much to learn. I guess its all down to making the most of your guitar practice time and focusing on the quality of your practice not just the quantity. Balance is key but hard to find sometimes.