How to Play Bar Chords on a Guitar with Small Hands

Bar chords can be a real beast for guitarists with small hands. But don't worry, they're not as impossible as they might seem at first glance. If you're finding it tricky to wrap your fingers around those frets, you're in the right place. Let's break down some practical tips and techniques to help you conquer bar chords, even if your hands are on the smaller side.

Getting Comfortable with Your Guitar

Before you even start forming bar chords, it's crucial to make sure your guitar is set up in a way that's comfortable for you. The size and shape of your guitar can make a huge difference. If you're struggling with a standard-sized instrument, consider trying a guitar with a smaller neck or a shorter scale length. These adjustments can make it easier for your fingers to reach across the fretboard.

Also, pay attention to the action of your guitar. The action refers to the distance between the strings and the fretboard. If it's too high, you'll need to press down harder, which can be especially challenging for smaller hands. A quick trip to your local guitar shop can help you get the action adjusted to a more manageable level.

Another thing to consider is the width of your guitar's neck. A wider neck might feel like an obstacle course for small hands, so you might want to try a guitar with a narrower neck for more comfort.

Finger Positioning Tricks

Now, let's talk about finger positioning. One of the most common issues for players with small hands is getting all their fingers to fit comfortably along the fretboard, especially when forming a full bar chord. Here's a little trick: instead of trying to press all your fingers down simultaneously, focus on the barre first.

• Thumb Placement: Keep your thumb centered at the back of the neck. This helps provide leverage and keeps your hand in a more relaxed position.
• Finger Roll: Instead of using the flat part of your index finger to make the barre, try rolling your finger slightly to use the bony side. It can help you apply more pressure with less effort.
• Economize Movement: Minimize the stretch by positioning your fingers close to the frets, reducing the amount of pressure needed to get a clean sound.

These small adjustments can make a significant difference. They might feel awkward at first, but with practice, they'll become second nature.

Strengthening Your Fingers

Building strength in your fingers will make playing bar chords far easier over time. Regular practice is key here. But don't worry, you don't need to spend hours each day practicing to see improvement.

Try these exercises to help build up your finger strength:

• Spider Exercise: Place your fingers on the first four frets of the low E string and move each finger one fret up, one at a time. This helps with strength and dexterity.
• Finger Push-Ups: While holding your guitar, gently press your fingertips into the strings and release. Repeat this several times. It's like a mini workout for your fingers.
• Chord Progressions: Practice moving between different bar chords. This not only strengthens your fingers but also helps with fluidity and speed.

Consistency is more important than intensity. Regular short practice sessions will yield better results than infrequent long ones.

Alternative Fingerings

Sometimes, a little creativity goes a long way. If traditional bar chords are causing you grief, look for alternative fingerings that might work better for your hand size.

For example, instead of the full bar chord, you might try a "mini bar" using just a few strings. This technique allows you to achieve a similar sound with less effort. Experiment with covering only the top three or four strings instead of all six. It provides a different texture while reducing strain on your fingers.

Another option is to use power chords, especially in genres like metal and punk, where they are staples. Power chords focus on the root and fifth of a chord, requiring only two or three strings to be pressed down, making them more manageable for smaller hands.

Leveraging Guitar Accessories

Don't be afraid to use tools and accessories that can help make playing easier. A capo, for instance, can be a lifesaver. By clamping it on the neck of the guitar, you can play bar chords higher up, where the frets are closer together and easier to reach.

Another accessory that might help is a thumb pick. It allows you to maintain a steady strumming or picking pattern while focusing on your finger placement without worrying about dropping your pick.

Additionally, there are finger strengtheners available that you can use during your downtime. These can help build the necessary muscles to make playing less of a chore.

Practicing Efficiently

Practice makes perfect, but it's important to practice efficiently. Focus on small, achievable goals and celebrate your progress. For instance, work on transitioning between two bar chords smoothly before moving on to an entire progression.

If you find yourself struggling with a particular chord, break it down into smaller parts and practice each section separately. Slow things down and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.

Recording yourself can also be a great practice tool. It allows you to listen back and identify areas for improvement. Plus, it's always rewarding to hear how much you've progressed over time.

For those looking to really hone in on their skills, Riffhard offers extensive lessons in rhythm and technique that can be extremely beneficial. Our courses are designed by some of the world's top metal guitarists, focusing on rhythm guitar techniques that can help you tackle challenging chords with confidence.

Keeping a Positive Mindset

Learning bar chords, especially with smaller hands, can be frustrating. It's easy to feel discouraged when progress seems slow, but maintaining a positive mindset is crucial.

Remember, every guitarist struggles with bar chords at some point. It's all part of the learning journey. Celebrate the small victories, even if it's just getting a single chord to sound clean.

It can also be helpful to set realistic expectations for yourself. Understand that improvement takes time and effort. Be patient and kind to yourself, and you'll see progress before you know it.

Using Riffhard Lessons

For those passionate about metal guitar, Riffhard provides an incredible resource. With lessons from renowned guitarists like Dean Lamb and Zakk Wylde, you can learn directly from the best. Our curriculum includes a variety of rhythm guitar techniques that can help with mastering bar chords, even if you've got small hands.

We offer a custom metronome, downloadable tabs, and interactive video lessons designed to improve your technique systematically. It's a unique opportunity to learn from guitarists who have mastered the art of playing in modern metal genres.

Building a Routine

Establishing a regular practice routine is vital to your progress. Find a time each day that works for you and dedicate it to practicing guitar. Consistency is key, and having a set routine helps reinforce the habits you're trying to build.

Within your routine, make sure to include time for warming up, focusing on new techniques, and playing for enjoyment. Balancing these elements will keep your practice sessions productive and enjoyable.

A little variety can also keep things interesting. Try learning new songs or riffs that incorporate bar chords. Not only will this make your practice sessions more fun, but it will also give you practical experience applying what you've learned.

Final Thoughts

Playing bar chords with small hands might seem challenging, but with the right techniques and mindset, it's entirely doable. Remember to be patient with yourself and embrace the journey of learning. If you're looking for more personalized guidance, Riffhard offers lessons from top metal guitarists, designed to help you improve your skills efficiently. Keep practicing, stay positive, and enjoy the process!