Having a firm grip is essential for everyday tasks and overall health. Research indicates that a strong grip may indicate improved well-being and increased longevity. Despite being often overlooked, grip exercises are crucial in performing common activities like twisting door knobs, opening jars, writing and using a computer keyboard.
Discover the key importance of a strong grip and unlock valuable tips to boost yours in this blog.
When did I first notice a change in my grip?
Previously, my handwriting featured elegant loops, and I enjoyed writing with a pen. Recently, however, I have noticed a change in this, prompting me to explore the causes, as sometimes it appears as if a chicken is guiding the pen!
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Additionally, I now request my son's assistance in opening the odd jar and water bottles! As a result, I have begun practising regular exercises to improve my grip. Fortunately, it’s not very hard to maintain and improve grip strength as you age, so let's look at some tips to improve and maintain your grip.
Understanding Grip Strength
Your ability to clench your fist is crucial for determining grip strength.
While gripping is done with the hand, the actual strength does not originate from the hand muscles.
Forearm muscles are mainly in charge of grip strength, while the smaller hand muscles contribute to gripping and primarily provide finger control.
The main muscles in your hand that affect the grip are the larger muscles situated at the base of the thumb. These muscles are involved in any gripping task that requires the use of your thumb.
Exercises you can do at home
Wring out the towel
Type of grip: crush
Tools needed: towel, water
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Run a towel under water until it’s wet.
Hold each end of the towel so that it’s horizontal in front of you.
Grip the ends and move each hand in opposite directions so that you start to wring water from the towel.
Wring the towel until you can’t get any more water from it.
Soak the towel again and move your hands in the other direction so that you work both types of crush grip.
You can also do this vertically.
Repeat steps 1 to 5 at least 3 times.
Clenching of the hand
Type of grip: crush
What you need: stress ball or tennis ball.
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Put a tennis or stress ball in the palm of your hand.
Squeeze the ball using your fingers but not your thumb.
Clench as tight as you can, then release your grip.
Repeat this about 50 times 3 times a day to see noticeable results.
Rubber Band Extensions
Type of grip: Pinching and improving finger dexterity
What you need: rubber band
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Start slowly with a light rubber band: Place your elbow on the table.
With straight fingers, place your fingers together, resting on your thumb.
Place the rubber band around your fingers and thumb, at the joint closest to your fingernails.
Keeping your fingers straight, move your fingers and thumb away from each other while trying to spread your fingers wide.
You should feel some resistance from the rubber band.
Return fingers and thumb to the starting position.
Repeat 10-15 times.
Repeat on the opposite hand.
Complete 3 sets on each side.
In wrapping up, it's clear that grip strength plays a pivotal role in our daily lives and overall health. Incorporating simple exercises like towel wringing, stress ball clenching, and rubber band extensions into your routine can make a big difference.
Keep exploring my blogs for more engaging tips and exercises to boost your well-being and stay active!
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