Stretches

During piano practises I noticed my hands were starting to ache and cause my pain, also that I was unable to stretch my fingers as far as I would like. Due to this I looked into hand and arm stretches to help me overcome these difficulties, this is what I found.

Stretching exercises should be done when the muscles are warm. For example, stretches can be done after a shower, after a bath or after performing some light exercises. Musicians should always stretch prior to practicing. They should also take regular breaks when practicing to stretch. For example, stretches can be done before switching to a new piece or after practicing a physically challenging section of music. Musicians should also stretch prior to performing and in between performances.

1 Finger Flicks
Purpose: Prevent Tendinitis and Trigger Finger, relieve tension and increase blood circulation in the hands.

2 Wrist Circles
 Purpose: Prevent Tendinitis, relieve tension and increase blood circulation in the wrists

3 Forearm Flexor Stretch
Purpose: Prevent Tendinitis in the elbow and forearm, relieve tension and increase blood circulation
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4 Single Arm Forearm Flexor Stretch
Purpose: Prevent Tendinitis in the elbow and forearm, relieve tension and increase blood circulation.
(Arca, 2013)

These techniques have allowed me to practise for longer without my hands becoming tired, it has meant I have more use of my time and have been able to achieve more.