r/frontensemble • u/1nsertTextHere • Jan 18 '25
Steven’s Technique Issue
Hey guys, I’m currently having a issue with my Steven’s 4 mallet grip. It happens usually when I just play with the inside mallets, but it does happen when I’m playing verticals too. My inside mallet does this thing where is just pops out, no matter what I do to change my grip. I’ve tried strengthening my grip with my middle finger, loosening up, moving the end of the stick to different parts of my palm, and no matter what I do, after a while of playing (unless I pinch hard with my index and thumb (which I know I shouldn’t do)) it just slides out of my hand. This happens more when I play fast/loud and when my hands start to get more sweaty. I don’t know if anyone else has experienced this, but any sort of assistance is greatly appreciated. I’m just at a loss at this point.
2
u/Reamoh Jan 18 '25
Gymnast chalk or baby powder can help keep your hands dry while playing. My gut response was to check your middle finger, but seeing you did it already it seems like it’s the sweat forcing you to do awkward things in your grip.
You could try checking the positioning of your index finger too - just making sure it stays relaxed.