Finger strength lacking

Hi

I just watched a video where the player was playing a lick, part of which involved using his index finger to bend the E ( 1st string ) up a whole tone at the 10th fret.

Now try as I might I cannot get this to work for me. I can manage it with every other finger including my pinky ( with a little back up from fingers 2 and 3 ) but not with my index finger.

I'm trying this on a Strat with 9s.

Am I unusual in this respect? Do I need to do something to improve my strength?

Wooster

Hi Wooster,

Not unusual at all. Bending a note a whole tone is a feat of strength.
Yes, there are finger strengthening exercises, but also, it can be just fine to 'help' the bend with an extra finger, if it doesn't interfere with the tone you are going for.
Have fun and keep us posted -
Lisa

Hi Lisa.

Thanks for the reply. I'm not too bad with bending with all the other fingers but my index finger. I just cannot manage it. I can't really help it with any other fingers either.

Actually having considered this, I suppose I could still help my index finger with the second and third ones just pushing them under it if you know what I mean. Does this sound feasible?

Wooster

Yeah man, practice it every day and it will come...

In addition to what is already said, it is also important HOW you do the string bending. It makes big differences. Don't try to use only you finger muscles, they are too weak. Use your whole wrist, the whole forearm is making a turning motion... this has power and you will be able to band even futher than a whole step.

Practise and patience, you will get there :)