Do you use a strap while playing seated

[gibpicker]

Just curious what the pros and cons are and if their even needed for most.

[RP]

Yes. I always use a strap....

[guitar12]

I do. It makes the guitar easier for me to hold and feels more secure and it made the transition to playing standing up much easier for me as the strap didn't feel foreign. For me, there is no downside.

Rob

[pagedr]

Not sure there are pros or cons really, just more about whether you feel you need it or not. I usually use a strap sitting down with my electrics but not with acoustics. Makes it easier to play smaller guitars like a Telecaster with a strap on, but generally don't need it with acoustics since they are big enough to be in a comfortable position without a strap when seated. Also depends on the specific situation. If I'm at home on the couch just noodling around then I rarely use a strap, but if I were sitting on a stool playing a gig or something I'd be more likely to use one.

[Jeremy]

Never. Straps get on my nerves.

[kcnbys]

Totally depends on the situation, but usually not while sitting down.

On my J-45 at times because of it's large (to me) size. The others, no.

[menhir]

I always play with a strap when seated. It's more comfortable and it's easier for me to position the guitar and have it stay where I want it. I keep the strap adjusted the same way when I'm standing, too.

I play with the lower bout positioned between my knees sort of like a classical guitarist, but I don't want to be bothered with footstools and such.

(Except for my Flamenco which has no end pin for a standard strap. I'm also reluctant to modify that guitar by adding one. I tried a classical/Willie Nelson strap, but having developed a dash of degenerative disc disease over the yeaers, I found the weight hanging around my neck uncomfortable. I'm still not to sure how to deal with that yet.)

[L20A]

Been using a strap while playing seated now for about 8 years. Health related issues have required it. Less pressure on my arms and back

[Peepaw]

Not while seated.

[lowrider]

There is no downside to using a strap. I use it standing and seated. I also play with the guitar on my left leg when seated. It puts the guitar in almost the same position as standing.

[vintage40s]

Originally Posted by lowrider

There is no downside to using a strap. I use it standing and seated...

Same here. Strap stays on guitar, and is put on as part of taking guitar out of case.

[raysachs]

Pretty much never with my acoustics. They're substantial enough that they're not going anywhere. With my electrics I usually do. My strat in particular I always do because that thing could slide off of my legs faster than you can say strat. With my tele, if it's on, I leave it on (and it's usually on), but if it's not, I'll sometimes play without one.

All things being equal, I'd rather not play with a strap while seated. But all things are never equal...

[bufflehead]

I always use a strap. And I prefer to practice, whenever possible, an a tall stool, to be as close to performance standards as possible.

I avoid playing on the couch, because doing so encourages less-than-ideal postures. (Or only practicing with smaller guitars.)

[tbeltrans]

Some years ago, I attended one of those Taylor sponsored clinics given by Steven King:



He emphasized avoiding injury to your hands and wrists when practicing and playing challenging material by using a guitar strap. As you can see, he holds his guitar in a typical classical position. To me, it is good for muscle memory to always have the guitar in the same position, whether sitting or standing. Also, at least for me, having the neck up at that angle is MUCH easier on my fretting hand compared to holding it parallel to the floor.

Tony