Is there an optimal way to push buttons on an arcade stick?

Newbie Saikyo Dojo
1

Just got a Qanba Q1 and have made the switch from pad to stick. Been a few weeks but I really am starting to like using stick now. I find shoryuken motions to be much easier because I can actually do the little “Z” motion that’s intended to be done much easier among other things.

But is there a particular way I should be pressing buttons. I’ve gotten used to using my index finger for light strikes, middle for mediums, ring for heavys, and I’ll bar the 3 punch and 3 kick buttons with my pinky for red focus. Since I wasn’t used to anything to start with I decided to get comfortable using the Daigo grip and it feels natural to me now. But most pro players I see don’t do the whole “piano” or “guitar” type button press style I’ve been doing (idk at first it seemed like using all 4 fingers seemed optimal on paper) and go from using 1,2, or 3 fingers only.

Just wanted to know if what I’m doing is going to develop bad habits so I can catch this early before I get too used to what I’m doing and what most pro players do to press buttons on the arcade stick.

2

There’s really isn’t a right way to hold a stick and correct way to press buttons. Everybody has their own way of using their stick. Certain people use only 3 or 4 fingers to press buttons (I only use 3). So, you’re not doing anything wrong. Do what feels comfortable to you, because if your format can make you perform all your bullshit (I mean this in a good way) at a 100%, then more power to you.

Also, it never hurts to experiment with your format. Like, instead of hitting 3p and 3k to activate red focus, you can try using your index, middle, and thumb to activate red focus. But if it doesn’t feel right, then no harm done, just go back to your regular format and keep on trucking.

3

I guess it’s helpful to learn early on how to hit every button with two fingers and do combos with it, so later on when you learn double tapping, you’re already used to that.
In terms of holding the stick just do what you’re comfortable with.