The Down/Back Arrow Remains Elusive?
Hey all, first post here, but I've been having a blast playing Stepmania at home. It's my favourite way to work out, and my Occupational Therapist suggested it could be great for some of my medical conditions. I really do love it!
Unfortunately, I've had a recurring problem: it feels like I miss the Down/Back arrow more often than I hit it! I mostly play on Moderate as I'm just in it for the workout and to have fun, and I rarely find anything too difficult, until the Down arrow gets involved and I just... have a 50/50 on whether I'll hit it or not.
I had to take a break for a couple weeks (I usually play twice a week), and now I'm back and it's worse than ever. Even 1-2 difficulty, I find myself missing it all the time. I initially thought it was the pad on my setup (cheapo soft pad because money is tight), but other arrows I hit consistently, and I've seen other folks mention this as an issue with beginners. I've spent the last little while researching what could be wrong, and I'm wondering if folks have any other input or tips.
* I'm thinking of starting at the lowest difficulties again, as boring and humiliating as it is, in order to build better habits. I've seen some folks suggest to hit the Down arrow at an angle, and/or try to use the heel? I have no idea how to get into that habit but I guess starting small makes sense.
* I've also seen people suggest that, when using a soft pad that provides no input/feedback, modding it to do so. Some folks say masking tape, some say cardboard. Do any of you have a suggested material?
Thanks in advance. This game has been very good for my health and wellbeing, and I'm quite sad to be having less fun and more frustration at the moment.