How long should a beginner practice steering on the first day?

[EverettAnn]

How long a beginner should practice steering on the first day depends on each individual's learning speed. Generally, the instructor will have them stop when they feel it's appropriate. Definition of car steering wheel: The wheel-shaped device used to control the direction of a car, which functions to convert the force applied by the driver to the edge of the steering wheel into torque and then transmit it to the steering shaft. How to hold the car steering wheel: If the steering wheel is viewed as a clock face, the correct hand positions should be left hand between 9 and 10 o'clock, and right hand between 3 and 4 o'clock. In the event of a collision, this posture is more conducive to supporting the body.

[OGraham]

Last time when I was accompanying my child during driving practice, the instructor mentioned that on the first day of handling the steering wheel, don’t overdo it. Focus on practicing the correct grip (at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions) and getting a feel for steering. It’s recommended to split the practice into 2-3 sessions, with 15 minutes each being sufficient. Muscle memory takes time to develop, and practicing for too long can easily lead to stiff arms and the formation of incorrect postures. Remember to shake your wrists to relax during breaks and observe the changes in the wheel’s turning angle in the rearview mirror. On the first day, it’s great to get familiar with the rhythm of turning the wheel half a turn or one and a half turns—there’s no need to pursue long practice durations.

[LaMariana]

As seasoned long-distance drivers know, the secret for beginners to master the steering wheel lies in lightness and gentleness. On the first day, focus on feeling the weight feedback of the steering wheel. Practicing wheel turns in a turned-off car is safer. Don't grip the steering wheel too tightly; leave some space as if holding an egg. I recommend practicing for 10 minutes each session, three times a day—morning, noon, and evening. Remember to compare which shoulder feels sorer after practicing left and right turns, as this helps identify uneven force application issues. Sneaking glances at the front wheel's turning angle while steering will accelerate your progress.

[LaMadeline]

I remember being super excited the first time I touched the steering wheel, but my hands started shaking after just half an hour. Later, an experienced instructor taught me a trick: it's not about the duration of practice but the quality. For beginners, focus on three key things: don't raise your elbows too high when turning the wheel, let the wheel slide back naturally when straightening instead of pulling it forcefully, and feel the tire's grip during turns. Practice in five short sessions, with breaks to drink water in between, and keep each session under 12 minutes. After practice, applying a cold towel to your wrists can prevent soreness.

[HaydenRose]

The driving instructor told me that the core for beginners is to develop a sense of direction. On the first day of practice, the schedule should be arranged as follows: First, practice steering with the engine off to familiarize yourself with the feel of half and full turns, 5 minutes each session. Then, start the car and practice stationary steering to feel the changes in steering wheel resistance at different speeds, 8 minutes each session. The total practice time for the day should not exceed 40 minutes, with a focus on noting how many turns of the wheel are needed to straighten the tires after a full lock. After practice, remember to rub your palms to warm them up and massage your forearms.