Mastering Bass Techniques: Right and Left Hand Positioning

Today, we're diving into the essential topic of proper right and left-hand positioning when playing the bass guitar.

I've observed countless players on TV and at gigs with questionable hand positions, a practice that can lead to injuries like RSI (repetitive strain injury).

This is why today we’ll be discussing the correct techniques for your right hand as well as your left.

Originally published on April 2nd, 2012, this article was updated and republished on November 29th, 2023.

Before we get to the right-hand positioning, ensure your bass guitar is at the right height for you – a fundamental aspect of your setup. I've previously shared a tutorial on strap height; if you haven’t already, make sure to check it out – it’s crucial for your long-term well-being.

ow, let's take a look at the basics of hand positioning.

1. Set the Foundation: The first step is getting your bass at the right height, somewhere between the chest and hips.

2. The Danger of Elevated Bass: Playing with your bass too high on your body results in uncomfortable arm positioning and could lead to potential problems later down the line.

3. Maintaining a Straight Wrist: Correct hand positioning demands a straightened wrist. This ensures that when you move your fingers, the tendons in your wrist can move more freely through the bones. I recommend positioning your hand near the pickup for optimal control, allowing a slight bend in your wrist for comfort and flexibility.

Now let’s take a look at the position of your left hand.

1. The Basics: Proper left-hand positioning begins with having your bass at the right height, which will make the following steps easier. Ensure your bass is correctly positioned between your chest and hips to avoid strain.

2. Lifting Your Hand: To achieve the ideal left-hand positioning, start by placing your hand down by your side and then gently lifting it to the fretboard. You'll find this much easier if your bass is at the right height.

3. Creating a Gap: Maintain a gap between the body of your bass and the side of your arm. A common mistake is tucking your arm too closely, causing tension and discomfort.

4. Keep It Relaxed: Your arm should remain relaxed and not tense. Avoid tucking it in; instead, let it hang naturally by your side.

5. A Straight Hand: When you place your hand on the fretboard, aim for it and your arm to be almost straight, with almost no bend in the wrist while you play. While there's some flexibility here, keeping your hand nearly straight is the goal. This ensures a wide range of motion and better playability.

An often overlooked aspect of hand positioning is the placement of your thumb. Placing it over the top of the neck limits your hand's mobility and restricts your ability to perform wide stretches.

To overcome this limitation, adopting a classical guitar technique is recommended. Position your thumb in the middle of the neck, allowing it to move freely up and down.

Adhering to these hand positioning guidelines is crucial for maintaining your physical health, and ensuring the well-being of your tendons and muscles.

Proper hand positioning will not only keep you injury-free but also enhance your bass-playing capabilities and expedite your progress as a bassist.

If you want to learn more, we have a dedicated guide to preventing injury put together by bassist and doctor Randal Kertz!
And if you’re looking to take the progress up a notch, check out the SBL Academy. It offers tons of learning pathways to make you a better bass player in no time at all.

Try SBL Academy free for 14 days!