Guitars come in various sizes and models to suit individual needs. However, certain aspects of an instrument’s build can affect your playing if it doesn’t fit your body type. How can you tell if the instrument is too big for you to handle?
Here are 6 signs your guitar is too big for you:
- You feel fatigued after a short while.
- You experience pain in your hands.
- You have awkward chord grips.
- The guitar’s scale length is too long for you.
- The guitar looks too big for your frame.
- Your elbow is raised up too high.
This article will tell you what to watch out for if you think your instrument feels too large for playing comfort. I’ll also discuss how to make playing more comfortable if you already own a big-sized guitar.
Related: are you too old to learn guitar? never, how to tune a 12 string guitar, and how to stop guitar calluses from peeling. Our self-taught guitar roadmap covers the basics in one place.
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- Fender Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle (MY FAVORITE GUITAR)
- Snark SN-8 Super Tight All Instrument Tuner (Easiest Tuner I’ve Used😏)
- 6 String Acoustic Guitar Capo (Best CAPO for quick changes)
- Dunlop Max Grip 1.0mm Nylon Picks (Thick Guitar Pick So You Don’t Lose Grip!)
- Universal Guitar Stand (Cheap & Minimalist Guitar Stand I Recommend)
- Levy’s 2″ Wide Quick Adjust Guitar Strap (Best Guitar Strap For Any Level)
1. You Feel Fatigued After a Short While
Feeling fatigued after playing your guitar for a short while could mean you have a guitar that’s too big for you. A bigger guitar equals a heavier guitar because it consists of more material.
Tiredness from carrying a guitar typically happens when you carry it with a strap around your shoulders. Even though straps help distribute the weight of your instrument across your body, a too-heavy load will still cause muscle fatigue and back pain.
Before you buy a guitar, ask to borrow a strap and see how long you can carry it on your shoulders. The guitar might be too big for you if you feel strained after five to ten minutes. In this case, it’s best to opt for smaller equipment or a guitar made with lightweight material.
Sitting vs. Standing While Playing
Choosing to sit or stand with a guitar boils down to personal preference and the musical style of each guitarist. Standing while playing an acoustic or electric guitar is common, but classical guitarists usually play seated.
Sitting while playing helps take some of the guitar’s weight off as it rests on your lap. However, guitarists who enjoy being on their feet carry the instrument’s weight in their arms and shoulders.
Sometimes, performers may alternate between standing and sitting because carrying a guitar for the concert isn’t feasible. Guitarists who switch between acoustic and electric instruments may also change their positioning for fun.
Try sitting down if your guitar is too bulky to carry, even with a strap. Many guitarists find that sitting down offers the most comfort while playing, but be careful not to hunch over your instrument too much.
Choosing a Guitar Strap for Your Size
A strap is pretty much an essential accessory for guitarists. Not only does it help hold your instrument up and closer to your body, but it also helps you distribute the total weight of your guitar efficiently.
There are several aspects to consider when choosing a strap:
- Length and width. Straps generally come with adjustable lengths, but it’s best to measure one that lets your guitar hang at the height you want. A wider strap is more comfortable than a narrower strap and offers greater support for a heavier instrument.
- Material. Guitar