Interesting, I didn't even think of analog vs d-pad when I made this thread. I kind of forgot about analog as I use the D-pad even in FF13.

I find that moving my thumb side to side requires a lot smaller muscle movements than moving my thumb vertically. That and the fact that I am usually daydreaming/watching TV when I grind so as simple a pattern as possible is best.

That and when I frame skip level I usually hold down the confirm button as I walk, so if I don't let off before the battle starts I might go into a sub-menu I have to cancel out of, whereas side to side will just do a row change or defend. Much less hassle. Guess I just got into the habit.