The Steve Stine Podcast

Why Are You Still Playing Slow? The Mindset of Speed Picking Part 2


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Speed picking remains one of the most coveted guitar techniques, yet so many players approach it backward—focusing purely on velocity rather than developing the proper mechanical foundation that allows speed to emerge naturally. 

This comprehensive lesson breaks down the often-overlooked fundamentals of efficient, clean guitar speed. We start with a simple three-note-per-string pattern, analyzing how proper picking technique creates a natural flow between strings using alternate picking. The crucial insight lies not in how fast you can move, but in how relaxed and efficient your movements become.

You'll discover how physical anchoring techniques dramatically impact your picking stability, why certain finger combinations (like 1-3-4) present unique challenges compared to others, and how to systematically build speed using both metronome work and the powerful "bursting" technique used by virtuosos like Yngwie Malmsteen.

What separates this approach from cookie-cutter speed exercises is the emphasis on self-awareness during practice. Rather than mindlessly racing up and down scales, you'll learn to identify your specific limitations, address them methodically, and accept that progress often comes in plateaus followed by breakthroughs. The honest truth? Sometimes you'll sit at the same tempo for weeks before making a leap forward—and that's completely normal.

Whether you're struggling with tension issues, inconsistent picking, or simply hitting a speed wall, these techniques provide both the physical framework and mental approach needed to transform your playing. Ready to discover what your hands are truly capable of?


Be sure to check out GuitarZoom's YouTube page to see the video, if you need to visualize some of this topic!

Links:

Check out the GuitarZoom Academy:
https://academy.guitarzoom.com/

  • Steve’s Channel → https://www.youtube.com/user/stinemus...
  • GuitarZoom Channel → https://www.youtube.com/user/guitarz0...
  • Songs Channel → https://www.youtube.com/user/GuitarSo... .
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The Steve Stine PodcastBy Steve Stine

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