This post will explain the difference between preparation and training. That is, prevention or rehearsal.
Many people perceive preventative guitar playing not as daily practice, but as preparation for what might happen. To keep our fingers in good shape, we need to practice every day, i.e., do preventative work. Let me give you an example.
In medicine, when “good” doctors give patients instructions on what to do to relieve pain, they typically give recommendations for when the urge hits, and for when it doesn’t. So this “no” is precisely prevention. But, unfortunately, we resort to “treatment” when it’s already unbearable. We remember preventative measures (taking medication or doing exercises) for literally a week, and then, when the pain seems to be gone, we stop doing them completely.
Some doctors recommend using their method only when pain occurs. Others, on the contrary, recommend using it daily, whether the pain is severe or not. So, for a guitarist (or musician), it’s crucial to understand that practicing is important not only when a concert is just around the corner and you need to learn and play something, but also when there aren’t any gigs.
For concerts, we use preparation methods. To stay in shape, we use preventative methods. These are completely different programs, serving different functions. I don’t recommend practicing preventative methods before a concert and then playing preparatory methods for a rehearsal. It will only make things worse. If you don’t believe me, try it yourself!
You should have a prepared program for preventing or maintaining muscle tone, as well as a program for preparing for performances or rehearsals. Use a specific program for each situation.
Rehearse, develop, and improve!
