Here's what I teach all of my students:
Let your arms hang down at your side. Take one stick and slide into your hand, with your arm still hanging down. You should be applying just enough pressure on the stick so that it doesn't slide out and fall on the floor.
Next, raise your arm, bending at the elbow, being sure to remain fully relaxed. It should be as if you are a puppet on a string and someone is lifting your arm at the wrist.
At whatever angle your wrist is at this point ... it's the best position for you right now.
God made your hand to hold a drumstick ... believe it or not. If you are fully relaxed ... you will naturally grip the stick the correct way. Sounds simple? IT IS!!!!
All the big boys are studying with people like Freddie Gruber in an effort to get back to the basics of playing, and how their bodies naturally move. Just think of how far ahead you will be if you do it the
natural way now ... rather than later.
We are all built differently, so there are going to be slight variances between all of us. You've got to find the position and grip that works the BEST for you ... which is going to be a natural grip and position.
Most people find that the American grip works the best. This grip is in between the German grip (palms down) and the French grip (thumb on top). Just use whichever one works for you. Your wrist will naturally bend a certain way ... and this is the way you should go with.
Don't contort your body! Stay relaxed!
Peace.
