How to Use a Hand Gripper for Strength
Master the hand grip exercise with our guide. Improve forearm size, wrist health, and crushing strength with proper technique and tips.
How to Perform
- Select a hand gripper with a resistance level that allows you to complete 10 to 15 repetitions with proper form.
- Place the bottom handle of the gripper against the base of your thumb and wrap your fingers around the top handle.
- Squeeze the handles together with a steady, controlled motion until they touch or nearly touch.
- Hold the closed position for one second to maximize peak muscle tension.
- Slowly open your hand to return the handles to the starting position without letting the tension drop abruptly.
- Complete the set with one hand before switching the device to the other side.
Common Mistakes
- Using a resistance that is too heavy to allow for a full range of motion
- Performing repetitions too quickly and relying on momentum rather than muscle fiber recruitment
- Neglecting the eccentric or opening phase of the movement by letting the gripper snap open
- Allowing the wrist to collapse or bend excessively during the squeeze
Muscles Worked
Primary movers
- Forearms
Stabilizers
- Wrist flexors
- Wrist extensors
- Brachioradialis
Related Guides
- 2 Handed Kettlebell Swing — Strength
- 3D lunge warmup — Strength
- 4-count burpees — Strength
Forearms · Strength