Older learner? Here's how to learn faster!

[@justinguitar]

*This lesson is part of my Beginner Guitar Course - Grade 3. Full program here:* www.justinguitar.com/grade-3

[@StevenShults]

Thanks, Justin! I started learning (from you!) when I turned 50. I'll be 55 this October, so I'll definitely try adding a 5 to 7 minutes of some sort of balance exercise before each practice session! (I find myself wondering if juggling might have the same effect. I haven't been juggling for a few decades, so trying to remember how should be sufficiently frustrating, but whether it lights up the same parts of the brain I do not know. I may experiment on myself. lol)

[@Delzona]

Have you considered moving this lesson with it's ideas to the very beginning of your lessons, as part of the introduction to learning guitar? As an older player myself (59) it would seem this information is coming rather late in the learning process by not being introduced until Grade 3.

[@ceb4382]

Is that a Joey smoking a lightbulb behind you?

[@mike-ue4wy]

I took some notes on a neuroplasticity article a few years back. Never went any further because, of course, I was too busy watching guitar lessons on you tube. Now, here you are, connecting the two, so my brain is already changing. Thanks. You are a great teacher.

[@robertakerman3570]

@@StevenShults I thought Everybody is older than 25(just teasing Justin a bit).

[@jchoude1903]

I have been doing neuroplasticity exercices for a few years now. It does work. I'm a lifelong amateur player, and 7 years ago I lost most of my picking hand capacity due to Multiple Sclerosis. Basically, I couldn't hold a pick, let alone do any hand picking. My hand is full-time numb, as if I were wearing a glove. Learning about neuroplasticity helped me recover a lot of my hand dexterity. I use a thumbpick, and I can even do some fingerpicking, albeit clumsily. My hand is still greatly diminished, it won't come back, but I taught my brain to work around it. There are simple exercices you can find here on KZbin. But let's say I'm not doing handstands, as I can barely walk anymore ;)

[@Jill_SmokeandMirrors]

You sound like a pretty fabulous human. I need a huge shot of your attitude. Hope it brings great satisfaction.

[@jchoude1903]

@@Jill_SmokeandMirrors You're too kind! I just do what I can. Your words tell me that you'll do just fine :)

[@Jill_SmokeandMirrors]

@@jchoude1903 Sending you a high five!

[@martynspooner5822]

People like yourself truly inspire me. Well done to you friend and it gives me a good kick up the bum.

[@aduck205]

Hey awesome comment! I have MS too and I'm glad to hear you're still able to play, I'm just starting to learn and I've been a bit nervous because of the wearing gloves feeling but your comment really gives me hope!

[@sustainablelife1st]

As a SIXTY five year old learner, i found that the right guitar is critical. For me, a shorter scale and a thinner (front to back) and narrower (nut width) neck helps due to lack of flexibility. Nothing to do with "learning" per se, but there are physical limitations for some of us older folks.

[@Confused_Philosopher]

I have exactly the same problem. What was the brand and type of guitar?

[@Dave001952]

I found the same. I have taken more to 4 course instruments like tenor guitar and Octave Mandolin/bouzouki

[@GetEviefied]

Totally agree and don’t understand why guitar KZbinrs don’t talk about this (at least none that I follow). Neck shape, scale length, fret radius played a huge role for me.

[@generalawareness101]

@@elric6084 I am a small guy so small hands and the Bullet Mustang almost is what I need so a half scale would be best though the damn things feel like a toy, and refuse to stay in tune for more than one strum.

[@daryltill70]

Me too, I found the Wolfgang EVH covers all these requirements

[@jimwar1890]

As a retired 72 year old I can vouch for everything that Justin is saying AND his teaching approach. I’ve played mediocre acoustic most of my adult life, but my playing “took off” once I discovered Justin’s website and KZbin videos. He is unquestionably THE BEST online teacher!

[@nealm4129]

Spot on you've mirrored life , just bought a Fender Stratocaster after playing the guitar very badly for 50 years I'm going to learn properly now !

[@louieo.blevinsmusic4197]

@@nealm4129get it, brethren.

[@alicew9835]

I really appreciate the time Justin has taken to recognise and address the fact that we're not all 19-year-old guys looking to shred in 6 months. Learning when you're older is so much harder. At 48, I can remember songs I learnt when I was 15 more easily than I can remember songs I learnt last week. I have never seen anyone deal with this topic before. Thanks. x

[@ColinRitchie]

@alicew9835 I know what you mean and I can tell you that the same applies the older you get. I am older than you, but I find I can still remember stuff I learnt when I played in a band when I was a kid and stuff I am trying to learn now, I seem to struggle to remember and need to be looking at a Tab or the chords

[@techguy9023]

My piano teacher said the reason I can’t seem to memorize whole songs is because I’m old. Amazing.

[@alicew9835]

Wow, that's encouraging,@@techguy9023!

[@whatifschrodingersboxwasacofin]

Just back from my guitar lesson. Luckily my teacher is close to my age of 60. He’s had every kind of student, including old. We had to go over and over and over and over C, Cmaj, Cmaj7, and C … something or other. Omg. 😳🙄😂

[@MrGunwitch]

48 isn’t old baby.

[@trentstroupe8130]

Best teacher ever! I started Mar. 3 2022. As of today I’m on module 13 and loving every single lesson! Btw…I’m 56😜🤟

[@begoodtoyourself2095]

I'm a 63 yr old beginner. So far I have enjoyed Justin's lessons. Wish me luck.

[@justinguitar]

You can do it! You're not alone. community.justinguitar.com/t/older-guitar-students-can-old-dogs-learn-new-tricks/26183 Cheers 😊 | Richard_close2u | JustinGuitar Official Guide & Approved Teacher

[@begoodtoyourself2095]

Thank you Justin. I have been binge-watching your videos today. I am subscribed to your channel as well.@@justinguitar . Learning the guitar has lit a fire under me in a good way!!....so thank you

[@risingson74]

50 year old beginner here, its about 6 months now and its been pretty slow going for me but I'm still determined to get this. Hope you're sticking with it!

[@valuedhumanoid6574]

My 21 yr old son had a horrible TBI and we thought when he came out of his coma two weeks later he would be just unable to function. Slowly as we worked with him, his brain began the process of healing. In two years he was fully up, walking, talking, playing his X-box, etc. The things normally done on his left side, the side he injured, began to be done by the right side. Just an amazing recovery and progress. now it's been 7 years and he's about 70% of what he was. A miracle TBH. Now he's gotten back into guitar. His partial paralysis in his right hand makes it hard to hold a pick, or pick finger style. I got him a tethered pick that keeps it held in the right place and he's slowly working on it. The day to day progress is slow and painful, but he's starting to realize it's working. He can do 10x what he could at first. I put 7 gauge strings, got the action good, a nice comfortable guitar body.

[@temiongcecilio]

The LORD Almighty restore him .

[@jellyj8194]

Hope he’s getting on fine. Sending love and light your way🙏🏾

[@jellyj8194]

Hope he’s getting on fine. Sending love and light your way🙏🏾

[@DaGSlM2015]

Justin, you are genuinely excited about teaching guitar and the science behind it! That’s what sets you apart from the other KZbin teachers and why time and time again, you are my number one choice.

[@kevincall9988]

I’m a 67 year old beginner. Learning is harder at an older age, but it is coming along. Justin’s learning process is very helpful for me. Thanks Justin.

[@robinbhairam7508]

Interesting subject, I wish to offer hope to the over 25 year olds! - I was an average learner as a young man but once I hit 32 after I had taken up running, I became a sponge … completing a degree, Masters and Doctorate (ironically the last two I found easier than the first), you just have to learn how to learn the best way for you. I’ve since gone on to learn languages, photography and took up the guitar at 59 (I was a grade 8 drummer so obviously had significant musical knowledge) - Just have fun and don’t give up (oh and never compare yourself with others!) great discussion 😊

[@deathwarmedup73]

i was average at school and then college in my early 20s. then i went to university at 30 and excelled. i didn't do any sports at that time or in the years immediately previously. i think i had just acquired the self-knowledge to reflect on *how* i was learning

[@barspinoza]

Thank you!

[@Dylanscam1]

Yeah... the best advice fun, fun , fun 🙂

[@robinbhairam7508]

@@deathwarmedup73 Spot on … I think the running and sport gave me some space and distraction to think (and more importantly not overthink!) - but yes it’s definitely discovering HOW we learn as individuals .. there is no one cap fits all. (Still searching to find the formula to help my golf! 😂) Best wishes

[@FrettieFingers]

I got a C grade in my guitar college course.( I was under 25 then) Jazz instructor just layed standard notation, inversions and stuff I had no clue about. Hated it. I play a little every day now because it's just fun to challenge myself.

[@merrillsutherin9530]

Hey, Justin. A FYI for you. I used to say ‘I can’t’ especially with barre chords. My in-person teacher at the time said to never tell yourself ‘I can’t’ about anything. If you do and keep saying it, you will never do it because you have trained your brain to tell you ‘I can’t’ do this. Say, I am having trouble with this, I need to keep working on this, and so on. For example, once I stopped telling myself ‘I can’t’ do barre chords and started telling myself keep working, I finally can do them. Although, sometimes I don’t grab them fast enough, but I am working on it. Love your style and enthusiasm and the courses on the app. Thank you!

[@thesundancekid1974]

When I read your comment, I knew exactly what you're talking about. It's absolutely true without a doubt whatever you tell your brain I can't or I can that's what it's going to be it's that simple as it relates to EVERYTHING. You've demonstrated from your personal experience exactly what the difference this makes of what you tell yourself. I've known and understood this for a long time. I recognized it immediately. I just want it recognized confirming what you said is absolutely true. This will reinforce your post when it's read again in the future. Thank you

[@royvallis224]

Standing on one leg, 15 minutes out from my next lesson: Thank you so much for this video; it tied some things together for me. My spouse has been studying this for years; you've tied it brilliantly to guitar practice and the frustration of adult learning. For me, I have to throw in a late start and, as I noticed that at least one other of your commenters does, negotiating neurological weakness from ms. As soon as you got to balancing exercises a major light flashed for me. Balance for many people with ms is already a constant challenge. Vertigo is a constant companion. It requires negotiation. In a pleasant (simple?) twist of fate, balancing exercises help with learning guitar just as much as learning guitar and the plasticity it both relies on and simultaneously encourages help buffer against the natural forces of aging and the no-so-natural forces of conditions like Alzheimer's and ms. The late British neurologist and musicologist Oliver Sacks (The Man Who Mistook his Wife for a Hat, Awakenings, Musicophilia) studied the effects of music on psychology/physiology. It's a kind of symbiosis of music and movement. Thanks Justin. It is this holistic approach to learning guitar that I have been following you for more years than either us would like to talk about. Peace.

[@AmbroseB1900]

Wow, I have experienced this without knowing! I'm 71, learning guitar and many times have struggled learning a difficult section even slowly, then, had enough and just played something I like to finish off. Then next session tried the difficult piece again and my 1st attempt was significantly better than my previous practice, as if I had learnt how to do it better whilst not playing! Amazing. Will now have to try the one leg technique! Thanks for sharing this. 🎸☺️

[@stevenread9257]

Thanks im 58 years old and just started learning a guitar

[@justinguitar]

Many thanks for the super thanks and supporting the channel. It means a lot. Cheers 😊 | Richard_close2u | JustinGuitar Official Guide & Approved Teacher www.justinguitar.com

[@trevorcains]

Im 72 and really keen on practicing my balance standing on each leg which I've been doing for some time. I find it totally mind-blowing that it should help me memorise my guitar practice. As a suggestion try standing on 1 leg with your eyes shut which makes balancing that much more difficult . Cheers Justin for another great video

[@cjtxgirl79]

Balancing really does work! I'm a traumatic brain injury survivor & I know I could be so much worse than I am but this balancing technique to activate neuroplasticity definitely helps me. Even my confidence when I play my guitar is better. Playing with my eyes closed feels more natural also😃. Thanks for this tip!!!

[@mattysguitarjourney9057]

I hope EVERYONE sees what I am about to say. I am 55 years old. I took up guitar 2 years ago. I also started a weekly trampolining exercise routine 2 years ago as well. I am learning at a good pace and more importantly, I am as a spry as I was when I was 18. I haven’t had a headache since Aug 3, 2020. Trampolining is THE BEST exercise on the planet. Talk about a balance exercise to help your brain improve its neuroplasticity. Please. Start trampolining today. Hell, even NASA did a study that touts the myriad of health benefits trampolining delivers. Blown away by this Justin. Love you man. Just started your program and appreciate all you do. Now start trampolining!

[@misscelliott6LAD]

Hi Matty, what kind of trampoline and exercise are you using? Full size trampoline? Any websites you can point me to in order to check it out?

[@mattysguitarjourney9057]

@@misscelliott6LAD I have a full size outdoor trampoline from a company called ACON (out of Finland). They are THE best trampoline company in the world in my opinion. I use it year round, including through the winter (I live in CT). On the occasion that I trampoline indoors, I use a rebounder from JumpSport. The exercises you can do trampolining are endless. From as simple as simple as bouncing two feet into the air with arms extended upwards towards the sky, or to the sides like a letter T, or out in front like Frankenstein, to full blown twists and flips. I have ZERO back pain (which I suffered from), ZERO body pain, zero headaches, incredible flexibility... I mean, I could go on and on... check out ACON and JumpSport and good luck to you!

[@bobobrien8968]

I wish I could. Shot spine so jumping would finish me. However, balance exercises are tge thing for me.

[@mattysguitarjourney9057]

@@bobobrien8968 you needn't even get off the platform to receive a benefit. An indoor rebounder can be used effectively even while watching TV, and it will strengthen your spine and core.

[@Invisible_Hermit]

58 years old here and overweight. This sounds like something I need to look into! Thank you.

[@adriaticseaeyes]

Love your channel. As a 49 yr old woman, I lost the acoustic guitar lessons I took from ages 10 to 12! You have explained so much and I am looking forward to picking up my old love again

[@gagmanius]

I truly have to tell you, your enthusiasm is a blessing that just makes me want to continue playing the guitar and always picking it up again and again. This topic specifically is dear to me, as I struggle with concentrating and structure (adhd person here) and it brings a lot of - frustration- with it. You’re a fantastic teacher and I want to thank you for your way of sharing things

[@sebastianjhasuahernandez9285]

Ditto

[@danbgt]

I am one of those “older” guitar players having started this endeavor after retirement. But I have a more vested interested in neuroplasticity. I am a polio survivor. Contracted polio in 1952 at 22 months old. Polio is a virus that attacks and destroys motor neurons in the central nervous system. Every person is born with all the motor neurons they will ever have. For me, polio killed the neurons that controlled my right leg leaving it completely paralyzed. As time went by, other neurons that were intended to do other tasks, took over the operation of the right leg and made it partially functional. I still ended up with an underdeveloped (crippled) right leg. But at least it works. Story has nothing to do with guitar playing but it is interesting to discover how the human neuron system operates. Thanks for the lesson. I started from scratch with Justin Guitar almost 4 years ago and am now an almost tolerable fingerstyle player.

[@olivier-pierredebelmont.3630]

Man,Chapeau as we say in French! what a fight to survive thinking that your brain can adapt,change itself,and that your survival depends of you winning this fight.

[@jchoude1903]

Kudos! I lost control of my right hand due to Multiple Sclerosis, and neuroplasticity taught my brain to work around it and learn new neuro-pathways to get the job (plartly) done. I'm back on the fretboard!. It can be done.

[@iandodd7828]

I was interested in this topic as an "older" player (since when is 25 "older"?). At 61, I've taken up the guitar again which I haven't touched in 45 years. Just had my 2nd lesson yesterday. Today I listened to the Huberman Lab podcast episode and I'm putting his protocol into practice. Great stuff you shared, Justin. Thanks.

[@jeankim9730]

It's just that on a cellular level, our brains start to deteriorate after the age of 25 on average

[@grimjowjaggerjak]

​@@jeankim9730I'm my peak at 30yo be it mentally or physically, I can't remember a time when I was learning things faster than now .

[@righton6442]

I'm a 56 year old. left handed older learner! Love your videos. You've helped me a lot! I'm just learning to play right handed. Not too hard and I love it.

[@bertpacal6191]

Hey Justin, everything you mention is described in Z-Health’s techniques. It’s not just balance (vestibular drills) but also vision and movement. You are spot on in this video and I’m so grateful you have adapted it to the skill of guitar; this will effectively help so many people. Thank you! Amazing presentation!

[@Richard195602]

Great to hear all the ‘senior learner’ voices. I’m 66 and started about 3 years ago. I’ve found my two Teles (1 US made, the other Japanese) are the most comfortable, especially the neck width ad profile.I also like my Epiphone Sheraton II - for jazz tones.

[@derekphillips9846]

What a positive video! I am a "returning beginner," and this has been a very nice motivator.

[@SpitfireRoad]

I do something very similar when learning a piece of music. After getting the notes, fingering, rhythm, articulation, dynamics and pedaling, I use a metronome to build speed. At a certain point, say 70% of tempo, I'll try and play start to finish at full tempo. I make note of where I crash and burn. These are the places I focus on.

[@justinguitar]

Seems like it is working for you - good stuff. Cheers 😊 | Richard_close2u | JustinGuitar Official Guide & Approved Teacher www.justinguitar.com

[@SpitfireRoad]

@@justinguitar Indeed, my performance prep is recording random start and stop points. Then, play/practice to them. Randomized stopping and starting a piece without missing a note or picking up exactly where you left off help makes it rock solid. It's different than forcing errors. I'm not sure what this method is but really works. The more methods like this we learn the faster we get to where we want. Keep it up Mr. Justin.

[@stmi1255]

I’m in my mid sixties, retired and since the pandemic learning guitar, primarily classic rock songs. Your insights resonate with me - thx

[@robertcochrane2822]

Hey Justin, this is a great video/lesson! It’s very interesting and has lit a fire in my mind. I’m almost 66, I started this guitar journey when I was about 50. I’m still climbing the mountain of guitar and music knowledge. You’ve planted seeds in my brain and I will update you as I move forward. I’ve been trying to learn modes and advance to playing lead and improving solo’s. Thank you !! ✌️❤️🎸

[@dh2602]

I'm so glad I came across this. I found my singing voice at age 60 via numerous audience feedbacks and offers to sing in public. I wanted to learn to play guitar for accompaniment. Been self teaching and have berated myself for the past 10 years because of my progress. Im not stupid and am talented in many areas but learning guitar has caused me to think that I may have a learning deficit and its caused me so much heartache, bitterness and frustration but I press on to a goal I will most likely never reach. This video makes so much sense. Thank you for what ever it is worth. I will never stop learning no matter how late I started. Will try these balancing suggestions before every practice session for the next month if only out of curiosity just to see if this is a fact for the learning process in the older learner.

[@justinguitar]

As an older learner, you are definitely not alone. community.justinguitar.com/t/older-guitar-students-can-old-dogs-learn-new-tricks/26183 Cheers 😊 | Richard_close2u | JustinGuitar Official Guide & Approved Teacher www.justinguitar.com

[@paulschreiber3433]

Yeah, the whole "Don't learn things wrong" mantra is essential, i.e. don't practice your mistakes. One article I read on how musicians become virtuosos emphasized that one of the things they do was they ruthlessly rooted out their mistakes. When they saw they were doing something wrong, they stopped what they were doing ~ immediately ~ and worked to correct it. No matter how laborious it might be to do so. Otherwise, the blunder will continue to appear in their playing and their upward progress is hampered by the entrenched issue.

[@Gr8FriknApe]

Strange thinking life experiences (knowledge) have so much to do with how you learn later in life. I am 70 years old. I'm an intermediate beginner on piano (2.5) years. I taught myself to read music and play on the piano. I had that "Ah Ha" moment and realized I could play any instrument I want as long as I know where the keys are located. After a large amount of research I purchased a new acoustic electric guitar this week. I learned how to set up a guitar on KZbin. I did a complete set up, tweaked the fretboard with the truss rod, changed my strings to some softer strings (11 - 47s), lowered and measured the action, found the saddle trough was cut too big (saddle was leaning forward) and shimmed the saddle before I tuned the new strings. I know about 4 chords on the fretboard right now. Totally enjoyed this video. It gives me hope as I learn the fretboard and go through the physical pain on my fingertips (chuckles). If you're older, never and I mean NEVER think you are too old to learn how to play an instrument. Thanks for your hard work. You are appreciated.

[@TheJstewart2010]

I started your course when I was 48 and had never before picked up a guitar. This is really valuable information. I will be doing the balance exercise before tomorrow's practice. Hearing what you said, I wondered if another reason that one minute chord changes are so effective is because they create focused frustration, especially in the early days. You know that you only have 1 minute, so you're completely focused on doing your very best for those 60 seconds.

[@Bill-ul6ue]

This really interesting. Going to give it a try. I’m 76 and find it takes a lot longer for muscle memory to develop. Many times it seems that if I skip a day or two of practice when I come back to it I’m doing better. That seems to play into what you’re describing.

[@Dylanscam1]

Go Bill go.... since i being playing 36 years, some of my breaks have been six years, three years and the last one was five years.... but i have always come back stronger and better, move over Willie nelson 😀

[@paulwestlake4278]

Totally agree. I've always found that resting between practice sets stuff better in your mind.

[@KevinHallSurfing]

@@paulwestlake4278 Absolutely. At 71 I find rest comes easily. LOL But I find if you miss a day or two, after a warm up, I have progressed more than a constant day in day out which bogs me down. That old saying "getting nowhere fast" comes to mind. 👍😀

[@robertakerman3570]

Hey Bill, Everything Justin said was great. I was taught to use a SLOW metronome, then complete the mission. Your ears will tell You right from wrong. Do not stop until the end; then rest Your hand palm down on the back of the guitar(as a "table" support). Then try again---it seemed to work.

[@tommyabernathy9880]

@Bill: I’m in the same boat. I’m worse off when skipping a day and my old hands don’t stretch out like they used to. That doesn’t stop me though! I’m determined. Good luck to you sir.

[@annday3784]

I love how you always challenge yourself. I’m 50 and I love learning new things too.

[@jeffjohnson5544]

I started playing and taking lessons in 1980 at 12 years of age and played in spurts up until 1999. Then after a 20 year break, I started playing again in 2019. I never forgot how to read music, first position chords and basic theory. I would say I'm as good of a player as I was in the 80s. KZbin lessons are great and virtually identical to an in person guitar lesson. It is amazing the material that is out there and the quality of lessons like Justin's for serious students. As an adult I see the importance of practicing wisely and the end goal of being able to play complete songs versus individual parts. I will never play fast like Eddie Van Halen but that doesn't mean I can't be a solid player and enjoy the instrument.

[@murrali1638]

Excellent Justin. Btw I started learning at 60 ( on a Martin) Now 8 yrs later quite ok. Still learning advanced skills. Will use this technique. Thank you

[@IvanKaye]

Am 62 just started to learn and loving it

[@joannebeauchamp1169]

Hi Justin! I’ve gotta admit, you’ve just presented the most INTELLIGENT guitar lesson I’ve ever seen on KZbin!

[@kimbullen3147]

Hey Justin, firstly, at 74 it’s almost unheard of for me to write on social media but I came across your blog on Neuroplasticity and immediately could relate to my own experience trying to learn Spanish, I knew the questions I got wrong were almost as important as those I got right, but I didn’t know why, your explanation has opened my eyes and don’t laugh I’m actually balancing on one foot before each lesson now. Bye the way I loved your approach to strumming guitar and singing.. Thanks KimO

[@ik2476]

I’m doing Justin’s course right now, and all I can say is; I wish this was available when I was a kid. Seriously, he makes is very, very easy. If you’re a beginner, I’d definitely check it out! Thank you Justin!

[@jeffwhitmire47]

I'm 46 and just started learning guitar during the Pandemic (using your app and videos) so I can finally play my own songs instead of constantly paying others! 😅 I can't wait to check out this video!!

[@justinguitar]

That's awesome!

[@russellnewton6660]

I’m 61 and had two frozen shoulders, and doing Barr chords for me is a killer, but I do love picking my guitar up, even though I’m pretty naff.

[@Mrktlarsen]

Awesome info as always Justin. I'm reminded of when I started following you years ago about not making mistakes. The saying at the time was "Practice Makes Permanent". So thank you for all your years of teaching us the correct way to do things :)

[@MattWagner]

Thanks, Justin. As a 55-year-old that played guitar in bands through high school college, I suffered a brain injury in my early 30s that reduced fine motor control in the right side of my body (right picking hand). Guitar became very frustrating not being able to perform at the level I was used to, and I gave up on it for 25 years. Determined to power through it, I purchased a new Tele and have been using your videos to relearn. Although a challenge between my geriatric age and brain injury, it can be done, and I’m gradually getting back to where I was by allowing my brain to re-wire the muscle memory that was lost. Much has involved just endless spider exercises and running through scales. Anyhow, your channel is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[@fuzzix]

Cheers Justin! This definitely aligns with my own experience of learning and practicing. About 25 years ago, I noticed that playing every day would lead to a dead-end progress wise. I took a couple of days off, and when I came back to it I was playing better than ever - my brain needed time to absorb and process what I was doing. I am long past my best years plasticity-wise, but scheduling time off is still a vital part of my learning routines. I've found grinding something every day is a great way to learn to resent it and burn out.

[@fuzzix]

@How To Skin a Rabbit Yeah, absolutely! If you have a flow on absolutely just stay on it. I still need to explicitly remind myself to step away from things when they stop being fun ... what would one call that, anti-discipline? As the least disciplined person in the world that sounds wrong :)

[@klimen638]

Break: Set your practice timer like this. 50 sec practice / 10 sec break Do this 5 times = 5 min (4min practice / 1min break.) Make a 30 sec break before you start the next exercise! After 15 min (12min practice/3min break) you should make a 5 min break before you start the next 15 min session. *(The 30 sec breaks between each exercise are not included in this Calculation otherwise it would be 16.5 min per session.) You should take the 10 sec break not as resting breaks but as a learning break. This means you give you brain time to learn and that's why it's a part of the the exercise - you play active for 4 min and your brain learns passive for 1 min = 5 min) If you want to practice for 60min you should make a longer break of 4 - 8 hours. (30 min practice in the morning and 30min in the evening.) Slit your exercise in 3 parts. 1. New stuff to learn (chords, scale, song) 2. Stuff you already learned but want to improve (faster bpm, cleaner playing, more relaxed playing) 3. Stuff you can play well but want to memorize better like ear traing or notes on the fretboard.

[@pmkrak]

I really do believe that you learn the most by correcting/overcoming your mistakes. Your example @ 10:00 mark was a little different because your teacher erroneously taught you something and you LEARNED it as being correct.

[@gururajchadaga]

My thoughts exactly. He believed that to be the correct scale which is why it is imprinted in his mind.

[@sillyskeleton]

Good point! In order to learn from your mistakes you have to first recognise that you're making them. The problem wasn't him making regular mistakes as he learned it, it was that what he was given to learn was fundamentally wrong.

[@ganeshpatil2386]

He is not only guitar teacher but also a life saver ❤️ Thanks Man!!

[@stevewarner3760]

Fascinating lesson Justin. There's an obvious connection to your martial arts studies, and some might find it difficult to make the mental jump. 30yrs ago I had had 4 years of weekly lessons with a top Guitar instructor, and got absolutely nowhere! I couldn't get close to amusing myself and found it a truly exasperating experience. Despite owning quality instruments all my life, and always having a deep and enduring love for the instrument and its sounds, I was mathematically hopeless! I stopped formally learning guitar in frustration and took up Tai-Chi as a passing interest. I took to Tai-Chi immediately, and found empathy, kinship, balance and many life enhancing qualities through its practice. In Tai-Chi we know how deeply balance affects the central nervous system including the brain, and how it helps with age related degeneration. In fact improving the elasticity of all cells and their growth, It should be on the National Curriculum it's such an important mindset for health. And as you say so easy to accomplish. I'm studying guitar again now, since the start of lockdown, each and every day, with more balance in body and mind, and having much more success. Even beginning to amuse myself!

[@gigishank5290]

60 plus here, my best tip is shiny silver metal strings that I can see against the guitar! This lesson is full of good tips for us older learners.

[@ParadiseVibe]

​@@gigishank5290 Neon glow in the dark strings even better, DR Strings make them, looks a trip !!

[@dharmaofdog7676]

Fantastic Topic ! I work in the Behavior Field for 30 yrs & one thing I have learned is that "it is best to Learn after Physical Activity & energetic Release". Going SLOWLY when Learning Music is also as important as learning it precisely. It is the HIGH REPETITION that forms the grooves in the Brain, the new Pathways. So SLOWER with PRECISION is most important to actually CREATE the New Neuropathways in the Brain. If you go at a Slower Rate, then you have to do MORE Repetitions to move forward. So the Learning becomes deeply embedded vs. skimmed over. Little Information is therefore RETAINED. PATIENCE is the one "Up Side" of Age. Kids under 25 tend to think faster is better. While they might have a "chemical" leg up, this gets OFF SET as soon as they rip thru a Scale Lesson & move on too quickly. Their advantages have just been neutralized.

[@christianlaue1510]

Fantastic lesson Justin. For a newer player in his sixties this lesson is "instrumental ". Won't be attempting a handstand but will definitely try balancing on one leg before my next practice sessions. Thank you for all the great lessons and your continued hard work for students worldwide

[@seaclark]

Thanks Justin, I watched the videos you referenced a few months back and use the techniques - yes they work. There is one other thing I learned from another guitar player - use the one minute chord change technique on actual songs. In other words, play the tune faster than normal, play through the mistakes, play the full song. No you don't do this to to start - like you state - perfect practice, however after you have the song committed to memory - pick up the tempo ( a lot) play through mistakes to the end - then come back at normal speed and play through again. You brains registers the mistakes, and seeks to correct them the next time through. The benefits from this technique, are 1) you play through the entire song, rather than stop and start over from the point of the mistake, and I seem to learn it faster. You end up practicing the entire song more frequently, and you erase mistakes as you go. Thanks for everything Justin. Oh, the other benefit, you learn to forgive a mistake and get your focus on performing the rest of the song without calling attention to the mistake.

[@barbsfpv3066]

You bring up a lot of interesting concepts related to the biopsychology of learning. Learning how to learn is something that most people don't focus on, but it pays the most dividends. I got lucky and went back to college in my late 20s, so I reactivated all that neuroplasticity out of necessity, and I've managed to keep it going ever since. I'm now in my 50s and think I learn faster than I did when I was a child. Great discussion.

[@gavinjones3637]

I started learning to play bass, to increase my neuroplasticity, to help me learn a new language. This idea of balanced based exercise is fabulous. I'll be trying that, before all of my practices.

[@mikelyoloson2743]

Im young (20) and often practice for an hour at a time full focus maybe 2 or 3 times a day. that can be very tedious if its something technical or theoretical that requiers alot of effort. Ive noticed that i take these little 30 sec breaks just by habit that you are talking about, and after the 30 sec i feel a little more in tune of whats going on like a little refresh.

[@IvanKaye]

This is such a a great insight

[@xforeverknightx]

40 year old here only been learning 4-5 years and you've helped me so much.

[@jeannecappella2670]

This is really interesting and I love how enthusiastic you are about the topic! Thanks for bringing it to our attention. Just did some balancing on each let and now off to practice guitar!

[@sb-cq5qt]

Two of my favorites in one show. Andrew and Justin

[@Robbie28]

OMG if you think over 25 is older learner, Im scared to what ya think I am at 52 lol. Its so hard to find a guitar teacher that keeps stuff structured for those of us that need it. Also would be nice to be able to incorporate a few older songs (Black Sabbath and such) to help make it enjoyable. So frustrating. I am talking about where i live in tx.

[@generalawareness101]

I am 57 with very small hands, and a hereditary condition where I can't grow calluses (when I do I go to bed to wake up with them gone) for at least two generations. I tried this in 2005 to quit then in 2021 I started on Justin's course to screw up my wrist and thumb joints to where I lost mobility with 24x7 pain. I almost needed surgery so I took off for over six months. I still have thumb joint pain, but nothing like I had and I can snap my fingers on my fretting hand again with some pain. I found a video that asked what kind of learner are you? Are you one who wants to learn at their own pace, or one that needs structure with a teacher that scorns, and praises, you to force you to go forward. I am the latter. Basically, I want to be back in Jr. High, and High, school back in the brass section of band. That is how I learn. The problem is where I live the cost is 120-220 USD per hour of instruction. This is 2022 and no way to that PLUS I know from 2005 and my one free lesson that instructors will teach you as little as they can to draw out the lessons so they make more money. Over the Internet I have not found what I need. Justin is alright, but by module 3 it falls off for me.

[@michaelw6277]

@Reformed Conservative absolutely. Teaching is a skill all the same, some people can do it, others cannot.

[@juliemulie1805]

I've got ten years on you! I use the Hal Leonard guitar method complete book for "structure", then KZbin lessons, not just from one source. Now, accountability to a live instructor may be what you're talking about.

[@PsychologyWorksOfficial]

I’m a clinical psychologist (that plays guitar), and this is brilliant. You speak the truth. Thanks for making this video.

[@cskueny]

I've been hooked on the Huberman podcast since hearing of it a few months ago, and those episodes on learning made me think a lot about both my guitar practice and my Iaido (Japanese sword) practice. It was great to see you highlighting this! The podcast as a whole has actually led me to make quite a few changes in how i do things, much to my benefit.

[@wildalbalass4867]

Brilliant. Perfect timing for this 64yr old newbie. Many thanks.

[@ellebhee5045]

I'm nearly 45 and been playing around a year now and also watching Justin's vid's has helped me loads. I feel my brain's still the same as when I was 14. I know it isn't but it sure feels like it! I practise 4-5 hours a day 5 or 6 times a week and I'm already planning on gigs :)

[@droussel7359]

Wow, what I wonder is how the heck do you even find 4-5 hours a day at 45?!

[@ellebhee5045]

@@droussel7359 I don't mind answering honestly here. I'm unable to work and haven't been able to since I was 32. I've got a few medical issues and I've also got autism. I'm in the UK so I get disability benefits.

[@droussel7359]

@@ellebhee5045 Really sorry for your disability, but happy that you could find a hobby that you like in music!

[@AJ_AJ.]

I’m 4 years past that 25 year cut off and have been learning with your app for 9 months. Thank you for this Justin!

[@resueah7257]

How has your guitar skill development been?

[@AJ_AJ.]

@@resueah7257 probably slower than most? I have 3 young children so I don’t always get time to practice when I want or as long as want. But that’s life, and something is better than nothing. I’m stuck on module 9. Have been for 2 months.. Really struggling with f barre chord and not getting the b string to ring out.

[@michaelvarney.]

Interesting. But I also recall that you’ve stated that practice must be slow, deliberate and perfect or you ingrain bad habits. Personally I’ve always learned physical and kinesthetic tasks better by pushing hard and letting my neural wiring sort things out. Go full speed, mistakes and all but paying mindful attention to what is working… then getting a good nights sleep.

[@sunnibird]

If I'm not mistaken I think Shawn Lane said something along those lines regarding his practice.

[@TypingHazard]

There's been quite a bit of talk about this in the last few years. Slow play and fast play are fundamentally different kinds of signals to your muscles, slow play can be intentional and exacting whereas fast play is sent as one chunk of movement commands and once you're committed you're unable to make mid-lick corrections. So slow practice has a separate application than fast practice, and it's not always right to assume that slow play naturally leads to fast play because your movement mechanics need to change when you're above a certain tempo. Troy Grady talks a bit about this as well, so does Martin Miller. After a while you just have to crank it and see what the state of your chops is.

[@sdjakeblues]

Hey Justin!! Greetings from San Diego! This is a fantastic video, being a 63 yr guys who has picked guitar back up after having been away for 50 yrs but what’s amazing is how I never forgot that Bill Doggit blues riff of Honky Tonk, never learned the solo but remembered basic cords. By joining local guitar club and playing in church the pressure has accelerated my Barr cords and cords I may never learned otherwise out of necessity you do. Thanks for your dedication and ongoing help especially for us old guys..;-)

[@mikecf1]

Awesome video, Justin! I'm a math teacher and have always been interested in the learning process. This has led me to having a classroom that is VERY non-traditional. I have always spoken about the principles behind learning an instrument or sport to learning math. Now I can speak to neuroplasticity too. And I will definitely have students on one leg to start class this year. Thanks!

[@flouisbailey]

I have learned to be more left handed in last 2 years. It’s guitar, started at 69 years old and like many it was Covid. I started educating the left hand much more and now find my left hand is improving in many ways. Retired chiropractor now learning more about learning. NP will explain why I improve slowly but I improve. Kids keep at it. Life/guitar are both a journey, continue your journey with a passion.

[@guitarista666]

You probably know this, but the biggest obstacle to students learning math is disinterest. Information barely sticks if a person is bored with it, and, honestly, neuroplasticity really isn't the problem.

[@mikecf1]

@@guitarista666 Actually disinterest isn't close to the biggest problem. Most students are equally disinterested in all of their classes. The biggest obstacle to learning math is weak foundational skills. Other subjects don't have this issue. K-6 instruction is CRITICAL to students succeeding in math as they get older.(And it has been getting worse every year.) Learning gaps that develop in 1-6th grade show up every year after that. What you did in 2nd grade LITERALLY impacts you in say 10th grade. Other subjects don't have this issue. Courses are independent of each other. You can bomb Chemistry and do well in Bio. Fail US History and get an A in European History. But math, like music, is different. You are building a house. Without a strong foundation, everything above the basics will collapse. If you can't add fractions in 4th grade, how will you add algebraic fractions in 9th grade? How will you ever play something from SRV if you can't change basic open chords. They are both subjects that respond to mastery learning, and neuroplasticity ABSOLUTELY has its place in math.

[@guitarista666]

​@@mikecf1 You're the math teacher, and I'm not, but your description sounds far more laborious and involved than I remember studying math as actually being. I think an enormous amount of time gets wasted learning a piddling bit of math each year, quite frankly. Yes, it builds on itself, but it's really not all that difficult. If the students actually wanted to learn it, they would. The science says young people, up through the high school level, already have plenty of neuroplasticity. I know I did during those years. It sure as hell didn't take me long to learn something, math or any other subject, whenever I applied myself. But, mostly, I didn't apply myself. One time I did was in college when I took economics. The prof said the grade for the course would be determined solely by the final. Like me, during those times, I didn't do anything until 4 days before the final. So, I had to learn the whole course in 4 days since the lectures had been Greek to me because I hadn't kept up. So, I put my ass in gear, and got serious for 4 days. I made the only A in the class. I tell you this as an example of what someone can do when they stop jackdicking around and really get to work. Your students don't need neuroplasticity exercises, They need to get to work and stop jackdicking around.

[@mikecf1]

@@guitarista666 This is such a lame take. Every student has a different level of ability. Some students don't have to work hard and do well. Others work very hard and still struggle. They aren't "jackdicking" around. Trust me, you aren't the learning expert that you think you are. After you teach thousands of students for 28 years, you will have a different opinion.

[@akarico]

Hey Justin, I love your enthusiasm to learning and improving one’s skills! Thanks very much for the online resources and videos you provide - Rico 😃

[@julierobinson2860]

I’m 47….. I can’t wait to try this tonight before my practice time!!!!!! I’m only been trying to learn guitar fur about 4 weeks now… and still struggling with clean chord changes… Can’t wait to see improvement!!!!! THANKYOU Justin for your incredible lessons!!! I’m so Thankful for you and your teachings!

[@petertowneya]

Incredible! Yesterday I went surfing and the conditions were quite choppy. It really tested my balance. Then I practiced better than I'd practiced in a long time. I can't go surfing everyday so might practice some balancing exercises pre-practice from now on. Thanks for posting Justin.

[@marksr12]

I'm 65 and will be trying the balance program tonight before practice. Thank! you so much Justin!

[@GrandaddyJeff]

Justin this came up last night in my suggested videos. I got back in to guitar after several years off due to a brain injury. I’m sure the combination of me watching videos on guitar and brain stimulation resulted in this suggestion. Obviously I was excited to try this.. I did the balancing on one leg for five minutes before a lesson as I have balance issues from my injury and knew it would be like the headstands for you. First attempt this morning. I just got done with my hour. Not only did I take it all in much easier, I legitimately nailed everything first attempt. That never happens. Very excited to continue this going forward and try to apply it to my everyday life, not just guitar, as I continue to try to improve my brain situation. Thank you for this! New subscriber here.

[@nomadexplorer6682]

Simply lovely suggestion. Balance is the key. Standing on one leg for 3 minutes each requires focus and resolve. That will make me dive into work with better orientation. Thanks for the education. 👍

[@katzensprung7449]

Dear Justin, thank you very much for this highly interesting video and for all your amazing work! People like you really make the world a better place. I love your channel! Again, thank you very much and all the best to you!!

[@michigangreen1915]

I am 37 and started playing when I was 30 so I appreciate this information.

[@michaelharpur5814]

Justin your sincere enthusiasm and sharing is phenomenal. I think you are on to something here and I am in. Never played an instrument and was in to all appearances tone deaf and bereft of rhythm. But having taken up the guitar for two years (at 55 then) I am almost flying both singing and playing. However I am just stuck in the Pareto Principal, that natural and at complete ease last 20% is taking well more than the 80%, but almost there. But I think this is a turbo unit to it. Simply standing on one foot is a great idea. Might I suggest doing it with your eyes closed to really stress it. I am doing that 1min each foot as a warm-up. The thing is even if it turns out to be pointless for learning, and I really think that is not the case you are right about this, but be that the case, just doing that balance exercise every day is going to do everybody the power of good in any event. Keep going as you are you are becoming a legend at this stage.

[@samramone84]

For the balance on one leg, if you want it to be more challenging, do it with your eyes closed. My physio has me doing these exercises for my knee rehab. Balance on one leg with my eyes closed for a minute. If I start to lose balance, I open my eyes, stare straight ahead, reset balance and close them again. I've found this to be surprisingly challenging. It's also great for building knee support strength, so this is an extra bonus. Great vid Justin, thanks for all your amazing content

[@sonnyb5176]

Very interesting....even more so that you've taken the time to deeply research learning techniques (kinda say's a lot about you as a teacher) - Everyone can always learn more and I'll be trying what you suggest here. Thank you for this, and everything else you do...including your generous nature and attitude.

[@berserker_2886]

Juggling will do the same as a balance based exercise, encourages coordination and neuroplasticity

[@amandaburton7747]

Oh wow, how amazing, and potentially useful. As a 60 (& a half😉) learner, I need all the help I can get! As luck would have it, my physiotherapist gave me a balance board, so I’m definitely going to be using that before my practice sessions. Thanks for posting this Justin👍

[@davebradley2051]

Justin … just stumbled upon you and your lessons…I’m 63 and coming back to guitar after many years… very thankful for all you do! This is very cool and interesting for learning at my age! Thank you!!!

[@stmi1255]

Thanks!

[@justinguitar]

Welcome! Thanks for the support, it's much appreciated :)

[@peterbotsford8878]

In these days of sloppy language it is a pleasure to listen to someone so articulate, Justin!

[@elenbrandt290]

This is very similar to a book called "The Talent Code" - which explores the biochemistry of learning - it (like your video) really helped me to understand the mechanics and up my skills and speed a lot. I am in my 60's - and it really works. Thank you!

[@ReverseCOPD]

I take Neuro Mag which increases plasticity and also increases synaptic density. I was in a coma a few years ago after a 12 day coma after tearing a hole in my aorta. When I emerged from the coma I could not even remember the alphabet. Two years later I am still at it getting better every day. Thank you Jesus!

[@gallogallas652]

Hand stand while playing the guitar with feet!

[@ABS6942]

Thanks, Justin - I still can't play the guitar but my handstands have suddenly improved out of all recognition

[@mariamqais7179]

Omg 😳 i have about 5 months left to be 25 and iam still at the beginner grade 😢😢😭😭😂😂

[@Mike-rw2nh]

Please don’t worry. You won’t flatline intellectually on your next birthday. I’m 47, and would say I’m a more efficient learner now. I may not have the physiological advantage, but I have myriad experiences of what works for me. Hope this helps. Happy playing.

[@mariamqais7179]

@@Mike-rw2nh sure as long as we stick to practicing we will get there eventually, Thank you

[@lindsayheywood7195]

I think we need a video of Justin doing his handstands.

[@ronmcc4]

67 here. Been playing self-taught for years. I’m about to start Justin’s courses to see what I’ve missed over the years. This is good info right here. Anything to make learning easier and faster. 😊

[@darringodden7225]

You are onto a good one with this Justin. I have been trying to learn since 40 seventeen years on I would say I was a relative novice. My hearing is damaged through power tools and in the beginning I could have described myself as tone deaf. My mental health was shaky and things were not good. I could only learn using theory. However things have changed beyond belief due to this delightful instrument. If you love sound you can play and entertain yourself and that's what I love to do. Your books are the best thing I found and love you for all your spirit.

[@gabijager7570]

I'm 56 and I will try this approach immediately

[@justinguitar]

go for it!!

[@fred4664]

I started learning to play guitar at age 71 and have been learning for 2 1/2 years. I’m going to start standing on one leg before I practice. I agree that the right guitar is important to older players. One of my challenges is large finger tips and fretting chords cleanly. What has worked best for me is short scale guitar 24 3/4, joined at the 12th fret and a 1 7/8 nut width to accommodate my fat finger tips. With average hands I like the narrower nut width but just can’t fret notes cleanly. The reality of the situation is that 90% of the KZbin instructors have no idea the challenge older players have with flexibility, speed and physical aging. But the neuroplasticity sounds interesting and worth trying. Thanks

[@VanHiti]

Wow!!!! I am 60 yr old and have every reason to use any means or helptool/theory to achieve my 'Bonamassa' goals, 'Clapton' targets whatever. Always interested in how to improve, this vid was an eye opener. Thank you very much. Have a nice weekend!! 👊🏾

[@robinalves8314]

I'm 32 years old learning guitar this speech helps me a lot

[@Banquet...]

I'm 56 and have never played a guitar before, but I went and bought one three days ago (Epiphone Les Paul 60s). I'm a keyboard player and want to play guitar well enough to be able to incorporate into my DAW synth/sample library soundtrack projects that I'm uploading to stock libs. I really do have doubts that I can learn to play well enough at my age but, having gone through a dozen or so of your lessons I'm really enjoying myself and can feel the progress. I did the one minute challenge yesterday between chords D to A and took ages to change the chords at first but by the end of the evening I managed 22 in a minute. Today I tried and got to 50 in a minute. Each of the 3 nights since I bought the guitar I've worried that I'll have forgotten the chords I learned by the morning, but each morning I feel like I can remember the chords a bit better than the night before, and change between them a bit quicker. I've now signed up to your website and the app and look forward to taking this as far as possible. I think it's amazing that you're offering so many free lessons and just wanted to say thank you!

[@chrismoosewaggywalk7027]

Hi Justin. I think there’s a lot here to focus more on, even for younger learners. I’m a fairly advanced musician but I like to run through beginner courses every now and then just to test my core knowledge, (going through yours I’ve already picked up a different way of paying A - I use pinkie, 4th, & 3rd as default). I’d urge anyone, of any level, to go back to basics every once in a while. With regard to practice, I always struggled with long regimes. I’ve discovered that if I play a song/routine two or three times and then put my guitar down and have a breather before starting again is way more effective than just going on and on. In addition to neuroplasticity, there’s also something called the Ebbinghaus curve that I think you’d be interested in. What you’re talking about in this lesson really cannot be understated - Great lesson!

[@davidlevitsky6779]

Fantastic lesson, Justin !!! For those who don't have any difficulty standing on one leg, and would like more of a challenge, try standing on one leg with eyes closed.

[@Ra-cq4el]

At laaaaast !! Somebody's talking about how older people should learn.. Thank you so much Justin. You've been my first help.

[@justinguitar]

Happy to hear that :)

[@thestrategicproduct]

Justin is one of the best teachers ever.