Right...and that's my problem with this etude. Even though it's not arm-crossing, it moves back and forth quickly over the whole length of the keyboard, both hands moving parallel to each other. I couldn't make it through the first section sitting as close as I usually do. I feel like it causes extra strain on my back and neck, too, because I'm short. My keyboard in my room is set a good few inches higher than the pianos over at the school, and I can get comfortable there, but it's awkward going from that to one of the school pianos.

So, sitting as far back as I do, I'm sort of hunched over the keyboard, so it's like I have to move farther to cover five octaves than I would at normal position. Back and forth, back and forth...no matter how well I can stay relaxed through it, it still puts strain on a lot of things.

Get in touch with and visit http://www.paulmanley.co.uk/Musicians/treatment.html
as he is a top hand specialist and very helpful.

That's a useful link, Doxy, thanks.

If I don't at least walk 2 or 3 miles every other day, my technique suffers. Regular low-impact exercise and a balanced diet are crucial, esp. when a pianist is attempting really difficult repertoire.

Of course, talk to your doctor before starting any exercise routine. (My lawyer said I should say that)

I'm starting to feel like an after-school special...

I think you should lift weights ... but only with the fourth and fifth fingers!

Mendelssohn's 53-3?? Wow, that's not beginner stuff ... have fun! And upload for us when you get it!

Wow indeed.

My old Augener's edition (ed Franklin Taylor 1909) gives a metronome marking of dotted crotchet (quarter note) at 104 which I think is editorial. It seems a sensible speed though IMO, and shouldn't really be causing any major fatigue problems with the right hand. The left hand is another matter.

Something you might try - in the LH figure Mendelssohn very generously gives you a whole quaver (eighth note) at the end of each bar up until the pattern changes at bar 24 or whatever. At the suggested tempo, that gives you just enough time to flex (bend) the fingers while you're moving the hand down to the first note of the next bar. Although this does involve an extra couple of movements it might be less tiring than playing with the fingers constantly extended if that's what you've been doing.

What is a good weight lifting plan for a woman trying to lose weight? I'm a 23 year old female wanting to find an effective weight lifting plan that will complement a 6 day a week running plan.
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Huh... why on earth are you asking this in a piano forum !?????