The exercise is simple, starting on the 6 string (low E) we place our 1st finger behind the first fret and pluck, next the 2nd finger behind the second fret and pluck, then 3rd behind third fret, then 4th behind fourth fret. Next we repeat this sequence of 1st finger first fret 2nd finger second fret etc. on the 5 string (A), then on the 4 string (D), etc. When we have completed this forward pattern we will end up with our 4th finger on the fourth fret of the 1 string (high E). Next we shift our hand up the neck of the guitar 1/2 step. This now places our 4th finger on the 5th fret of the 1 string (high E). Staying in this position we reverse the exercise, 4th finger fifth fret, 3rd finger fourth fret, 2nd finger third fret etc. When we reach 1st finger second fret we now continue the same reverse pattern by moving our 4th finger to the fifth fret of the 2 string (B) and repeat the reverse motion of 4th finger, 3rd finger etc. When we have completed this reverse pattern across all six strings we will end up with the 1st finger on the second fret of the 6 string (low E) where we now shift up the neck of the guitar 1/2 step and start the forward pattern starting with the 1st finger on the third fret of the 6 string (low E).

I will vary the length of the crab crawl to accommodate the ability of the student. For my beginners we will do the crawl to when the last motion is the shift up the guitar neck of the 1st finger fifth fret of the 6 string (low E). My advanced students will perform this exercise up to the 12th fret and then reverse the pattern back down the neck.

When a student has become proficient at the crab crawl and can make the string changes and shifts smoothly I’ll add in the metronome. My students really enjoy measuring themselves to the metronome. We log their fastest beats per minute (bpm). The crab crawl must be performed smoothly and seamlessly between all strings and shifts for a bpm to be logged.  Regardless of my advanced students ability I always start this exercise out slow (100-120 bpm) to avoid injury. Once the hands and fingers are sufficiently warmed up we turn up the speed. The students get a real charge when they hit the “200 club”. My ongoing challenge is for the student to beat my best time. On a good day my crab crawl is clean at 400-420 bpm. I currently have two students that smoke me with a consistent 440 and up, and one knocking on my door at 380 bpm.

Peace and good tunes to you, D. Patrick