The Grip Strengthener: An Essential Tool to Enhance Your Grip
Grip strengtheners are the forearm training tool of choice for all fitness enthusiasts. To increase the weight of your dumbbells, you must first be able to hold them firmly in your hands. These strengthening grips allow you to develop your grip and gripping strength.
But the benefits of the grip strengthener don't stop there: you can also use it to strengthen your joints and improve the dexterity and tone of your hands. Whatever sport or activity you practice, this metal grip made of aluminum is ideal for you.
What is the best hand grip strengthener?
The best hand grip strengthener is probably the 265lbs (120kg) version. It offers the best value for money, and you have significant room for progression since it can provide resistance up to 265lbs (120kg).
Its rubber handles offer a comfortable and non-slip grip for optimal use during your exercises. You don't feel the metal contact (steel and aluminum blend). Finally, it is extremely durable. We've had one for 3 years now, we test it regularly, and it still works just as well.
What are the benefits of using a grip strengthener?
Improving grip strength and athletic performance
A grip strengthener can be adjustable from 11 to 364 pounds, allowing progression suitable for all levels, from beginner to experienced athlete. Using it strengthens the muscles in your hands and forearms, which optimizes athletic performance. If you can reach 364 pounds, you'll be able to perform well at any arm wrestling table.
Better hand usage at work
The hand grip is a valuable ally in your professional environment. Regular use prevents tension and pain related to repetitive tasks, such as typing or tool handling. It's therefore perfect for office workers, musicians, and craftspeople.
Rehabilitation
In rehabilitation, the grip strengthener proves particularly effective for post-traumatic or post-operative muscle strengthening. It helps treat health issues like arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome. Its use improves joint mobility and prevents chronic pain related to muscle weakness. Regular practice increases range of motion and flexibility in hands and wrists. For all these reasons, it may be recommended by a physical therapist.
Does the grip strengthener really work?
Yes, you can see results after 2 weeks of use. The results you'll notice will be a better grip and more prominent veins. To observe muscle gain in the forearms, you need to wait a month.
How to use grip strengtheners?
Our adjustable grip strengtheners allow you to work on several types of grips and progress in different areas, such as pull-ups or deadlifts. They are perfectly compatible with a strength training program, whether in the gym or with bodyweight exercises.
Different types of grips
Power grip: Involves the thumb opposing all other fingers, useful for tasks requiring strength.
Pinch grip: Holding an object between the thumb and fingers, used for fine manipulation.
Hook grip: Fingers wrap around an object without the thumb, often used in weightlifting.
Spherical grip: Fingers and thumb form a spherical shape, suitable for holding round objects.
Cylindrical grip: Fingers wrap around a cylindrical object, like holding a hammer.
Number of repetitions and sets
For muscle mass gain, volume-based training is needed to achieve hypertrophy and stimulate muscle growth. It's recommended to start with at least 4 sets of 10-15 repetitions.
For strength gain, reduce the number of repetitions and load heavier. The 200lbs resistance grip strengthener is more than sufficient to reach a good strength level.
For rehabilitation, it's best to set the resistance as low as possible and perform a high number of repetitions.
The best exercise
In the starting position, spread the thumb away from the other phalanges. Hold the strengthener with your palm facing inward, squeeze the handles together using your fingers and thumb, as if around a pull-up bar. Each handle should touch the other at the end of the gripping movement. Perform sets of 10 to 15 repetitions, gradually increasing as strength and endurance improve. Use the grip strengthener 4 to 5 times per week to allow muscle recovery. Increase resistance and repetitions over time to continue developing strength.
Mistakes to avoid
As in any sport, neglecting proper form can lead to injuries, as can using the equipment incorrectly. A common mistake is not warming up before using grip strengtheners, which can lead to wrist and forearm injuries.
Which muscles does the grip strengthener work?
The muscles worked by the grip strengthener are:
Brachioradialis: Located on the lateral part of the forearm, this muscle participates in elbow flexion and forearm supination
Finger flexors: Involved in finger flexion for gripping objects
Finger extensors: Work to stabilize and extend fingers
Flexor carpi radialis: Responsible for wrist flexion and adduction
Long and short radial carpal extensors: Participate in wrist extension and abduction
Supinator muscle: Enables upward rotation of the hand (supination)
The grip strengthener also allows you to work each finger individually, perfect for climbing or gymnastics athletes, for example.
When should I use my grip strengtheners?
One of the main advantages of the strengthener is its ergonomics. Indeed, you can use it anywhere: at your desk, watching TV, walking, on public transport. You can even keep it in your pocket when doing a set.
Regarding timing, there isn't necessarily a "best time" to train with grip strengtheners. Just remember to avoid using it before going to bed to prevent disrupting your sleep. This applies to all other strength training and fitness exercises.
Is it dangerous to use a hand grip?
No, there is no risk of injury when using a hand grip. Controlled practice is actually very beneficial for health. As with any strength training, remember to take breaks twice a week to rest the joints and muscles being worked.