Guitar Footstool article
Guitar Footstool Explained: Features, Types and Tips
A guitar footstool elevates the leg so the guitar rests in the classical position. Here is how it works, the types available, and when a guitar support is a better option.
A guitar footstool is a small adjustable stand placed beneath one foot to elevate the leg, tilting the guitar into the classical playing position. It is a simple accessory with a significant effect on technique, posture and comfort in classical guitar playing.
Why a Guitar Footstool Is Used
In the classical guitar playing position, the guitar rests on the left thigh with the instrument angled so the neck rises toward the player and the body is held close to the torso. Achieving this position naturally requires the left leg to be elevated. The footstool raises the left foot, lifting the thigh and allowing the guitar to rest in the correct angled position without strain.
Without this accessory, players either compromise their posture (holding the guitar in a flatter, less ergonomic position) or place the foot on other objects — both approaches that lead to technique problems and physical discomfort over time. The footstool is the traditional solution to this positioning problem and has been standard in classical guitar technique for over a century.
How a Guitar Footstool Works
It is a small platform on legs, usually with height adjustment via a notched or screwed mechanism. The player places the left foot on the platform and sets the height so that the thigh rises to the angle that allows the guitar to rest comfortably. The optimum height varies between players depending on leg length, chair height and guitar body size, which is why adjustable height is a standard feature.
Most designs sit between 2 inches (5cm) and 8 inches (20cm) in height. The widths are typically around 20–25cm, large enough to support the foot securely. Rubber feet on the underside prevent the footstool from sliding on hard floors.
Guitar Footstool vs Guitar Support
An alternative to this approach is the guitar support — a cushioned bracket that attaches to the guitar’s side or back and rests on the leg, holding the instrument in the classical position without requiring the foot to be elevated. Guitar supports such as the Ergoplay, Wolf and Gitano are popular among players who experience hip, knee or lower back discomfort associated with the footstool position.
The guitar footstool remains the most common choice because it requires no attachment to the instrument and is inexpensive. Guitar supports offer ergonomic advantages for many players but involve adapting technique slightly. The choice between them is a personal one and worth exploring if the footstool position causes discomfort.
Where to Go from Here
Our buyer’s guide covers what to look for when choosing a footstool. Our beginner guide explains how to set one up correctly. And our mistakes guide explains the errors worth avoiding.
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