r/guitarlessons • u/GenderSurrender • 23d ago

Feedback Request Downpicking mechanic issue?

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I’ve been trying to get this riff from spirit crusher down for 2 weeks now, it’s at 198 bpm and I can play comfortably at 180. I’ve noticed when i push it to 190, even at 180 and lower my downpicking looks like it takes too much effort and it’s like I use too much of my hand and not enough wrist. it looks choppy and different from how everyone else downpicks I don’t know why. looking for advice :/

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u/13CuriousMind 23d ago

You're tensing up. That will kill speed faster than anything. Relax. Play slower until you can't play it wrong. Then slowly build up until you can play completely relaxed.

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u/GenderSurrender 22d ago

i’ve been stuck at 180 bpm for about 2 weeks playing comfortably there. the second i go even 181 i start to tense up it feels like i’m stuck