The Spider

The exercise is designed to develop dexterity, but it also strengthens the mental connection between each left-hand finger and its placement on the fretboard. The goal is to move each finger independently while keeping the rest of the hand relaxed and stable.

As you work through the pattern, try not to shift or twist your hand to reach each note. Position your hand so that every finger can reach its assigned fret, and then move only the fingers required for each position.

Begin slowly, and don’t practice it excessively at first. This exercise can create tension in the hand, wrist, or arm if you force the movement or continue after becoming fatigued. The goal is relaxation and control—not speed. If you feel tension building, stop, relax your hand, and return to it later.

Listen to “Making Guitars Play Their Best with Bryan Parris” for a demonstration and complete explanation of how to move through the exercise.