Forearm Motion Reference

The forearm joint is unique among motion mechanics: it’s the one that spins.

The forearm’s axis of motion runs parallel to the forearm itself, creating a rotational motion which is used as a primary motivator in techniques like Eddie Van Halen’s famous tremolo motion.

But the ingenious design of the forearm joint allows it to play an arguably even more important role in assisting many other picking motions, either by moving the pick directly, or by changing the orientation of the joints that are doing the movement. In this critical role as a helper motion, the forearm joint lets the player create sophisticated motions which wouldn’t be possible with any single joint alone.

Forearm Mechanics

Forearm Mechanics

Getting to know the joint that rotates

 

Identifying Forearm Motion

Chapter 1 - Identifying EVH Forearm Motion

The forearm joint is a rotational wonder

 

Chapter 2 - Identifying Gypsy Forearm Motion

Django's picking motion is a blend of forearm and wrist

 

Chapter 3 - Identifying Aldrich Forearm Motion

This forearm-wrist blend is among the most common