Reddit mentions: The best strenght training hand strenghteners

I do agree with the others that practicing once a week is less than ideal, but I it seems like I'm disagreeing with several folks in saying that physical muscle strength is very important. It is also important to know what muscles to exercise and how to exercise them. Anaerobic muscle groups (not powered with oxygen) are the most important for kendo. These are your "fast twitch" muscles. On the other side there is aerobic muscle groups (they are powered with oxygen). These are commonly known as "slow twitch" muscles. Most people (incorrectly) use their slow twitch muscles to do kendo. When the sensei says "you're too tense" it's because you're using your larger slow twitch muscles. When the sensei says "you're using too much power" it's because you're using your slow twitch muscles. Basically, a lot of form, posture, etc., problems come from people using slow twitch aerobic muscles.

So the question is, how do you use anaerobic muscle groups instead? These muscles tend to be a lot smaller. They're also harder to feel and use if you haven't used them a lot in the past. I'm fairly certain most people don't know these muscles exist, but they're there. In order to use them (in most kendo-related cases), you have to relax your bigger slow-twitch muscles. They have to go limp. Then, fast twitch can take over. Lifting the shinai over your head, doing okuriashi, swinging, te-no-uchi, holding a strong kamae... you need strong fast-twitch muscles for all this. MANY people spend years and years (and sometimes their entire kendo careers) building the wrong muscle groups because if they switch, they'll become weak and slow again. Slow-twitch muscles allow you to do one cut (a really hard and painful one, usually). You can do a pretty fast swing this way too. So people think they can get by and improve, but they always hit a wall, and usually end up injured at some point. If I had my way beginners would just exercise the right muscle groups before they're allowed to swing a shinai. Sort of like how a lot of kyuudo dojos do, in a way. Until these (weird, normally unused) muscles reach a certain point, you'll be physically incapable of doing correct kendo.

Basically, that's a long way of saying you should definitely be exercising these muscle groups at home as much as you can. There's a magic base-line for fast-twitch muscle strength that will physically allow you to do kendo correctly. Without a high enough base strength, you'll never swing without tensing up. You'll never move your feet really quickly. Basically, you'll never hit that "elite" level and your cap will be "okay" and maybe "somewhat good." You'll start to feel the difference after a month or so. You'll notice you're using your left hand more than your right. You'll start to actually feel te-no-uchi. And, your shoulders will be strong (and relaxed).

With that in mind, here's my daily home routine. Note: I actually use a lighter shinai (37) with all of these. It allows me to focus on form, te-no-uchi, etc. But, it also prevents me from using aerobic muscle groups when I'm getting tired.

1. Lunge w/ cut (horizontal to the floor). Knees should be at 90 degree angles, so don't over extend. Focus should be on keeping back straight, using te-no-uchi- at the end of your cut, and driving your center of gravity straight down below your core.

2. Matawari. Similar to #1. Keep your back straight and drive the center of your core straight down.

3. Grip Training. I use these donuts. Squeeze using pinky and ring finger. Both hands.

4. Katate Suburi. Just left hand. Focus on the form of the swing. If you can't swing with one hand without tensing your shoulders, choke up on the grip. If your floor is too high, sit on your butt with legs outstretched and back straight. This'll work out your core some. Then, switch to right hand (holding in the position your right hand normally would). Focus on relaxing and not using your right hand much on the swing, and then practice squeezing at the end for te-no-uchi. Shouldn't be a workout for the right arm katate-suburi. Just practice for good form and not using it.

5. Small Katate Suburi. Same thing as #4, but you're practicing hisashi-men with one hand. Focus on not letting your shoulders roll forward, tense up, etc. And, practice the te-no-uchi at the end. You can do this one standing with short ceilings.

6. Okuriashi w/ Metronome. This is so I can actually measure progress in okuriashi improvement. Each tick on the metronome is either right foot moving forward or left foot coming back into position. Tick: Right foot goes forward. Tick: Left foot catches up. Start with a slower speed that is easy and focus on keeping your center of gravity right in the middle of your feet. Then, slowly speed it up until you find your ceiling. From there, you can increase the speed little by little and get your okuriashi faster. This'll also be a really good workout for the weird muscles required for good okuriashi when you're pushing your ceiling speed up.

As for how many / how much of the above you should do... I don't actually have a number for you. I just do each of the above until I feel slightly uncomfortable, then stop. Then I write down the number / time / etc., on a spreadsheet so I can track it. After going through all 6 (you don't have to use the order above, I tend to go back and forth between things), do it again until you've gone through all six four times. For the first three times through, just go until you're somewhat uncomfortable then stop. For the final set (fourth time through), do as many as you can. Main thing is you're increasing your averages slowly over time. The important thing is consistency and exercising even when you're tired. In fact, the only way to get better is to exercise when your muscles are tired. This actually activates gene sequences in your DNA that tell your body to get stronger. If you don't stress your body enough (i.e. be consistent and do your exercises every day) this won't happen, and your muscles won't actually get physically stronger. Exercising once, and then letting yourself recover fully is almost as bad as not exercising at all. Your body will always try to change itself so that it feels comfortable, so if you're always sore and working out, your body will try and catch up to that. Once it does, you have to up the ante.

With anaerobic muscles, you don't want to push them really really hard. They're more like "sprinter's muscles," so they can't take a ton of stress over long periods. Also, if you keep working them out beyond "somewhat uncomfortable" you're not getting much benefit out of that. The most efficient (and safe for injury) method is to stop when you're feeling it a little bit, then move on to another exercise while you let your muscles recover (they'll recover quickly--in minutes--if you're actually using anaerobic muscles).

One other thing I'll add... I do think endurance is important, but if you do proper technique, and build up anaerobic muscle groups, high-endurance activities get a lot easier. When you're not tensing and using your big muscles, you move much more freely and can do kendo a lot longer. My dojo is one of the toughest for endurance I've been to (and I've traveled around quite a bit). It only got easier after I started working on anaerobic muscles. No matter how good at running I got before, practice was still killer. Really, kendo is more like sprinting than long distance running... though some could argue it's a bit like long-distance sprinting. There's a reason why the high-ranking sensei can do kendo for a really long time. You also don't see them breathing as hard as everyone else. Part of it is efficiency in their skill, but another part (I believe) is that they use muscle groups that don't use oxygen to power them. So, no need to breathe so hard. Faster recovery. etc.

tl;dr Exercise your anaerobic muscles

I mentioned this to someone else regarding warming up outside, but I use it inside too. These are awesome for warming up forearms/shoulders quickly. I wouldn't statically stretch until you're already pretty warm, other than some dynamic (arm swingy) type stretches. You should check out my friend's site Climbing Nutrition he's super knowledgable and has zero preconceptions about nutrition (a very rare thing for people here in Colorado). Look at the diet information and supplement guide, there's a lot of good stuff there. For core workouts Mark Anderson's routine is a pretty good set of exercises, all of which you can make harder or easier to fit your needs. Cross training is always good just for general fitness and to maintain a healthy weight (if that's something holding you back) but climbing is a very specialized sport, so really climbing is the best training.

Hey, I have weak hands as well and am in the process of trying to strengthen them since I use them every day at my job. I have some suggestions to help.

1. Exercise the closing your hand motions. I have a hand squeezer thing that is like this https://www.amazon.com/Fitness-Cathe-Starter-Hand-Grip/dp/B001FB614W If you want to save some money you can also fill a balloon with flour (sounds easier than it is) and use that. Start slow with low reps and work your way up.
   
2. Exercise the opening hand muscles. They have these cool tools that help https://www.amazon.com/Dometool-Stretcher-Resistance-Strength-Exercise/dp/B071XVSTZV/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1506143530&sr=8-7&keywords=open+hand+exercise But I think using a rubber band does the same thing for less money. Again, start off slowly and work your way up. Make sure to try and do it every day.
   
3. Exercise your writs. You can get a small weight in your hand (or a can of soup for cheapies) and put your arm straight out. Palm facing down, lift your hand up. Do that a few times then turn your hand around so your palm is facing up and lift your hand up again. Try and stretch your wrists a bit after if you can. I find that I can't get a good stretch since I am too hypermobile, but give it your best shot.
   
4. Something that I just recently discovered was PopSockets. They are an attachment that you put on the back of your phone and it accordions out. I just got one this week and I have not dropped my phone since, which is a big improvement. https://www.popsockets.com/
   
   I wish you luck and hope some of these things help.

First, don't look for shortcuts. Yes, you can play a Fmaj7 (x-x-3-2-1-0) or a power chord varation (x-8-10-10-10-x) but you're going to have to build up the strength to play barre chords sooner or later anyway.

What gauge strings are you using on your Samick? Since you're a beginner, I would recommend switching to extra light strings, which will make it much easier to play barre chords. If your guitar hasn't been set up properly, consider taking it to a guitar tech and ask them to lower the action on it so the distance between the strings and the fretboard isn't as great.

The F barre chord is the hardest barre chord to play because it's lowest one on the neck, where you need the most strength to play it. So start playing barre chords further up the neck, which will come a bit easier. I.E., try playing B major (7-9-9-8-7-7), or try minor barre chords like E minor (0-7-9-9-8-7).

Lastly, consider buying a Gripmaster hand exerciser and use it on your fretting hand whenever you're not playing guitar. I used one as a beginner some ten years ago and it helped a lot.

Don't get discouraged. Keep practicing.

Practical gift, reasonable price: Grip trainers. Grip is often the limiting factor in kettlebell movement. A little extra grip training plus kettlebells can develop a lot of hand strength. The local sporting goods store's selection probably tops out at 80-90 pounds of force to close, and a man who can swing a 62 pound kettlebell will find that pretty easy. Ironmind is the best brand, I stuck some Heavy Grips in my wife's amazon shopping cart as a hint.

In a pinch, if there is an REI near you, they carry a big selection of grip trainers for climbers. Climbers train fingers and wrist more than just the crush grip that kettlebells use, but that is extremely useful in life.

By the way, your father is a badass. Not many men whose kid is old enough to buy a serious gift make significant changes in their fitness and strength. A 62 pound kettlebell moves fast and generates a lot of force. It is above average to have the ability to physically handle that in middle age, but the mental toughness to develop that capacity at a point when it isn't physically easy marks him as a true badass.

Recently I've begun looking into ways to increase the speed and accuracy of my left hand. I am right handed and noticed recently that I can do 720 motions with my right hand at least twice as fast and with greater accuracy than with my left despite never using my right hand on a joystick.

The plan: Use guitar hand, wrist, and forearm exercises to increase the strength and accuracy of my weak hand.

The goal: increase the speed and accuracy of my left hand.

Excercises:

1. Take a few rubberbands and put them around the outside of your thumb and fingers. Spread your fingers apart until you feel fatigue. Rest. Switch hands. Repeat 3-5 times.
   
   
2. Use a light dumbbell for this exercise. 3-5 lbs. Hold the dumbbell with your arm at a 90 degree angle at your side with your palm facing up. Turn your hand down and repeat this motion for 8 reps. Do 3 sets with both arms so you don't end up with some freakishly lopsided forearms and people start asking questions.
   
   
3. Grip strength. Get one of these and find your sweet spot. Again you're doing 3 - 5 sets of 8.
   
   I'll be doing these exercises often for the next couple months. My hopes are that by the end of this test I will have as much speed and control in my left hand as I do in my right.
   
   

> If I change my grip to 'ride' the safety (as some do with a 1911), it suddenly becomes 100% reliable but completely unpleasant to shoot.

P938, one-handed, bad - notice the thumb below the manual safety: https://imgur.com/VyPbvCB

P938, one-handed, good - thumb above/riding manual safety, and open space for grip panel engagement for support-side thumb: https://imgur.com/Gb815NC

P938, two-handed (simulated) - support side thumb (represented by flashlight) is straight, generally parallel to the barrel, and "pointing" at the target, tip of thumb contacting frame or upright of trigger guard. Meaty base of support thumb engages left grip panel, while support finger tips squeeze right-to-left into support thumb (40% of total squeeze pressure). Firing middle and ring fingers squeeze fore-to-aft along front and back straps (60% of squeezing pressure). Firing thumb rests on top of safety, tip of thumb parallel to barrel, resting on top of support thumb. Firing pinkie is just chilling and along for the ride. https://imgur.com/f80qLaK

EDIT: Explanatory picture (with un-simulated thumbs) at bottom of linked article: https://blog.springfield-armory.com/team-springfields-top-5-pistol-gripping-gripes , and video demo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MT6yfw4UDE

Reliable is good. And for manual safety pistols, you need to grip it in a manner that does not accidentally (or negligently) re-engage the safety during the firing cycle. Such is the cost of carrying/shooting a SAO.

> what did you do to work past it?

More grip strength, so that your pistol does not move in hand during recoil. Squeeze a raquetball or tennis ball with your ring and middle fingers (might need to start with whole hand). Use some grip trainers ($7 Walmart, or $14 Prohands Pro).

Man, I haven't used one of these in forever. My dad actually made one out of like a broom stick and I used to use it all the time but no idea if he still has it. Might have to buy one.

FWIW, I've been using Captains of Crush grip trainers for a while for my grip strength and forearm strength. They are kind of pricey at like $25 a piece on Amazon, but high quality and very simple and easy to use obviously. probably great for improving grip strength in BJJ, though I don't do BJJ myself. The pressure goes from like 65 pounds up to 365 pounds at the top, which is an insane amount. I got the Trainer (100 pounds) first and I'm now able to close the No. 1 which is 140 pounds.

Just keep in mind anyone trying them that the point isn't to squeeze them over and over, you squeeze them together as close as you can and hold for as long as you can then rest for a while. Over time you'll be able to touch the tips and then you're pretty much ready for the next one.

You and I have had virtually identical experiences. Granting that I still struggle with getting my trich under control, here's the humble advice I can offer:

1. Identify times/situations when you tend to pull more frequently and then if possible, create uses for your hand(s) that prevent them from automatically migrating to your face. For me, driving is a big auto-pull time. With one hand on the wheel and my mind wandering, my left hand will find its way to may beard and start wreaking havoc. What I did to combat this is is buy a hand strengthener like this one which I keep in my car. When I recognize that I'm pulling, I'll grab this thing instead. I also keep silly putty in my car for the same reason.
   
   
2. Medication/therapy can and does help. Though I personally haven't yet had much luck in this department, trich is an anxiety-based behavior for which treating the underlying causative factors helps significantly. In fact, we've all tried willing ourselves to just stop and we've all seen just how effective that can be. Getting to the root (so to the speak) is the sustainable way to rectify this destructive behavior.
   On that note, try to take note of when you tend to pull more and when you tend to pull less. That is to say, try to pay attention to what else is going on in your life when your trich gets worse. Are there possibly certain triggers that are influencing the rate of your pulling? Become more mindful of how you're doing generally and how that relates to your pulling. Creating these links are important in coming to understand the behavior and ultimately stopping it.
   
   
3. Lastly, eye-shadow. Yes that's right. Go to a beauty supply store or Walmart or whatever and find a color that closely matches your beard color. I have a dark auburn/copper colored beard and ended up with a color called "latte". It's not an exact match but its close enough to where it fills in the hole(s) and blends everything together fairly seamlessly. Oh, also pick up an applicator. You can either get a small paint brush type thing or the eyeliner applicator itself (which is what I use and is pretty effective).
   
   That's all I've got. Best of luck man, I wish you many full bearded years ahead!

A few tips for getting a clean bar chord:

• Make sure your thumb is behind the neck, not over the top. Improves your leverage on your bar finger.
  
• Make sure your bar finger is as close to the fret you want to bar as possible.
  
• Try a lighter gauge string, it'll reduce the tension on the strings and require less hand strength for a clean bar
  
• Make sure your guitar is properly set up where the string heights are even and your action is correct. Also try lower action as long as you aren't getting a lot of fret buzz.
  
  If none of those work, you just need to keep practicing and develop your hand strength. Bar chords take a fair amount of pressure from your hand to get them clean, especially on acoustics. I used to use one of these things when I was a beginner and they seem to help.

I ran into this type of problem a few years ago. Option one - go straight to the gym so you don't see his puppy dog eyes (I tried doing this and it didn't work for me haha). Option two, take that $40/month, put it in a cookie jar or something where it is out of sight and out of mind, then buy some equipment when you have enough. I'd recommend only getting one thing at a time in order to make sure you don't get overwhelmed by your sudden choices. For example, when I did this I found a set of dumbbells on Craigslist for $30 that had 3 different weights. Not a huge discount but reduce reuse recycle and all that. Next thing I did was buy a prohands grip master to work on my finger strength https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0006GCBL4/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1467465386&sr=8-2&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=prohands&dpPl=1&dpID=51-bY1uRjzL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1 . Next I bought new shoes because mine were causing foot pain (apparently I'm a wide who knew?).

It's a few years now and I have a decent home gym. My commute isn't 4 hrs round trip anymore but I still like the flexibility, especially when I woke up early this morning and decided to do my workout then instead, and didn't have to wait for the gym to open.

We just got a new puppy, the previous dog I couldn't bear to keep cooped up is now an old man. She gets antsy because he gets tired. I've made a game of running sprints with her. Also probably going to pick up some random PVC or something to start doing pole weaving and etc.

I know it sounds daunting and just impossible. Going to the gym can be great at helping you focus and get out of the house. I found that for myself trying to get to the gym was adding so much stress. It sounds like you still get the chance to get out and socialize (unlike I did at the time haha) so I wouldn't focus too heavily on the gym. Heck, if you have the space you could probably find some 2x4s and create an outside area to workout that is flat. My uncle lives in a trailer in rural Texas and that's what he did. He says his favorite part is the ice cold showers after.

Sorry this post was so long, I really understand the difficulty you are feeling and I hope one of my ideas helps!

https://www.amazon.com/Gripmaster-Exerciser-Medium-Tension-7-Pounds/dp/B0006GBDZY/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1491831858&sr=8-3&keywords=finger%2Bstrength&th=1

I'm not saying with 100% certainty that this will work, but I started playing guitar about 15 years ago and when I started my fingers would kill me if I played for like 30 minutes or so. I bought one of these and it drastically improved my dexterity to where I could play as much as I wanted without pain or stiffness. Granted I was 16 at the time and things didn't hurt as much or for that long, but it did help.

Another thought it tape? Maybe open up the finger holes a bit more and tape your fingers. It should work like a compression sleeve and keep your fingers from swelling in the first place.

Or neither of these are good ideas. I don't know. I'm spit-balling here lol

The way I'm swinging now requires so little effort. I pretty much load up and let the momentum of the club head carry me through. I used to try and muscle everything. As a result of my new swing, I've changed my focus on what I work on.

1. Flexibility comes first. I have a family full of bad backs and I have to make sure my core stays stretched out. I do a few yoga moves on the floor for that. I also make sure my hamstrings are nice and loose.
   
2. Core. Twisting exercises to work the obliques, like the Russian twist, are what is providing me more power. I also do leg lifts while lying on the floor. Keep your lower back flat against the floor and while keeping your legs straight, raise them so your feet end up behind your head touching the floor. Do this as slowly as possible. Those combined with situps with your legs flat on the floor really help me maintain posture and prevent back issues.
   
3. Lower body. Strong legs are definitely important and help me feel nice and stable. I like to do a lot of squats and lunges. All with dumb bells.
   
4. Grip. I've found that for me the grip is the #1 most important piece of my golf swing. If I can't feel the club head in my hands, things are going to end badly. I bought a couple different grip exercisers. The Heavy Grip is good for building general strength and the Gripmaster is great for isolating different grip muscles. If you pick up a Gripmaster, be sure to read through their suggested exercises. If you just squeeze the thing it's too easy and won't do you any good. There are a couple exercises that are perfect for making a golf grip better. After a couple months of using those tools it made a huge difference in my swing. The club is steadier in my hands and my grip pressure stays steady. I've never been fond of doing wrist curls with dumbbells, but they can be helpful. Sit on a bench or a chair, set your forearm on your thigh with your hand and dumbbell hanging off the knee. Curl your wrist. Flip your arm over and go both directions. Fapping with your offhand can also work.

To be honest, I haven't been able to overcome losing finger strength between gyms. It's a real bummer every time I get back to it. The hangboards I travel with are the most compact I've found, but without a reliable bar to hang them from (not to mention having to fit one or two in a 24L bag), your best bet might just be something like these babies.

Warm up, and do a bunch of holds to failure. Easy to do absentmindedly and during transit and such. Not perfect, but definitely better than nothing.

Also keep an eye out for doorframes! If you're lucky, your accommodations might have a strong enough one to hang from

Think another layer of wood would prevent that? Those are just an old set from Amazon Heavy Grips Hand Grippers - Set of 6 Non-Slip - 100lbs - 350lbs - Effectively Train Your Hand Grip Strength w/Targeted Forearm, Wrist & Hand Exercises - Advanced Hand Grip Strengtheners https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000LLI9G0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_NPKpDbEMTYE0Y. The hardest I've been able to do is the 250 lb x1 with my dominant hand. The 300 and 350 are so hard to budge its ridiculous

I am new to "grip" training (been powerlifting/bodybuilding) for few around 6 years. "SUPER GRIPPERS" look awesome to me being adjustable. I dont care for certifications, i just really want to get stronger forearms as possible for me. My question is; are they good as they seem to be? Currently looking at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06ZXYP9XV/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A1I1RXXZ29LZB1&psc=1.

And should i also include something like a "hand exerciser"? https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KH3L7KC/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1

​

Thanks to anyone taking their time to reply. Btw, I will also be using various fat grips everyday

Okay, thanks for the tip! It would at least be something for me to do at my desk, and make me feel like I am doing something that will help me improve haha. Do you think that something like this or this would be more beneficial since it seems to be targeting the fingers more, or are they all exercising the same muscle? I'm not really a workout person, so my terms are probably all off haha.

I also get mad forearm tendinitis from lowbar, so much so, that when I still squatted, I almost exclusively did front squats after I didn't find a way to adjust my lowbar form to compensate. You could try Ben Pollack's talon grip though, it definitely helps relieve the stress, I was just never able to make it that stable, but I have super tiny hands, so that could've been related.

I find using this to help me the most : https://www.amazon.com/TheraBand-Tendonitis-Resistance-Tendinitis-Intermediate/dp/B000KGOMBC/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=therabar&qid=1572648692&s=sporting-goods&sr=1-4

Looks like a floppy green dildo, but it really helps stretch/strengthen the muscles affected by tendinitis from lowbar. That plus extensor training as /u/bigcoachD suggested, is really what will help you the most. I also use the therabar for my carpal tunnel that I developed from my typing intense job haha.

Are you looking for strength/speed/endurance training, or technique? I don't know if any tool is really useful for practising technique, if you don't have the body of a full guitar as a counterweight and the correct neck position (wrist position has a big impact on strength and technique).

For the former, these hand grip trainers are pretty useful.

Don't just hold it in your fist and flex it in the one position, though. GripMaster suggests a bunch of different exercises, a lot of them are fairly relevant to the guitarist. I suggest lighter tension + more repetitions to build some strength and more endurance needed when playing.

I strongly recommend the light tension. You don't need that much strength for the guitar, rather than endurance and flexibility, and doing finger exercises (not grip exercises) on the thing is surprisingly hard on medium tension (probably an injury risk). Try holding a medium tension one between fingers with the thumb (not palm) supporting it from below—you probably won't manage to hold the entire thing down. Try doing it a finger at a time, same thing...

Potassium really helps together with other cognitive and muscular exercises.

For the former, you can do a simple exercise such as counting down from 100. Ideally you start before proposing and count down while you're talking to her.

In the other hand (the one you're not holding a banana) you should be holding and discreetly using one of these thus ridding yourself of those common "shakes" and tremors commonly associated with nervousness.

It might not be enough though, considering you seem very agitated. One thing I've found to be most helpful when talking to people is to wear this because it not only gives your scalp and head musculature a soothing massage, it can also play MP3s. Self-affirming and positive messages should be keywords for whatever you choose to listen to.

Now, you might be thinking - where should I put my ring, considering I have no hands left unoccupied. This is a logistical problem. As you recite your numerical mantras and have your positive life-view affirmed, exercise your hand and consume a soothing, potassium-rich banana, you can simply offer the ring, placed on the tip of the banana, and you're set.

Alternatively, consider eating a Frankfurter hot dog, which is also rich in potassium and tread the ring on that. Let me know if this helps!

I have baby hands. I bought "captains of crush" by Iron Mind. Iron Mind is a reputable brand with great quality. Best investment for strength I have made to date. Start slow and look up strength routines for these grippers. Best!

IronMind Captains of Crush Hand Gripper - Point Five https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006G377UQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_tDsVBbYHBMYZR

Play as much and as often as you can, strength will come, pain will subside. When you pump gas, use your left hand. Get a squeeze ball or a pair of these. Stay out of dishwater for a few days. Just pressing your fingertips into the bass of your hand is a good exercise too. Play 10s or higher (string size based on high E string gauge), don't fall into the habit of playing strings that are too light or you'll be loathe to break it. Light strings just don't have the tone. And yeah, screw that high action...get a good set-up. Practice scales to get your fingers used to moving and developing strength at all angles to the fretboard. And welcome to guitar, history:s best-loved chick (boy) magnet.

As others have stated, try barre chords further down the neck... F barre in the 1st position requires a good deal of finger strength. Try B barre in 7th pos, then A at 5 then G at 3. Work your way up to F at 1st.

Having good position/posture well help - (assuming you play right handed) left leg up a bit using a foot rest, guitar resting between legs, neck of guitar angled up about 30ish degrees, left palm on the side of the neck, thumb directly behind frets on the back of the neck - like youre trying to pinch the strings down between your thumb and index. Dont try to wrap your thumb around the neck, unless you have crazy monkey hands having the thumb out of position makes barres a lot more difficult .


Look into buying something like this to build finger strength
http://www.amazon.com/Gripmaster-Hand-Exerciser/dp/B0085MX3SG

I used these exact ones and they helped a lot with finger strength and dexterity.

In short: practice.

I am assuming a thumbs forward grip. If so, there should be almost no downward pressure from your strong hand thumb while it lays on top of your support hand.

Also, grip strength plays a bit of a role. You can build that up using strength trainers like the CoC ones. They are also available on Amazon.

I actually have a lot of experience with this sort of issue from a previous relationship. The TL;DR is i spent a TON of time researching the female orgasm, and G Spot stimulation.

*Disclaimer: I gained a ton of new information and new techniques, but guess what - still no orgasm. Kinda screwed me up cause I kept trying to place blame (on me, then her, then me again...etc) but really i should have continued to keep an open mind and communicate more with her. I was immature. I mention this because you shouldn't make it a "goal" that you or her get pissed off that you don't reach. Every girl is unique in the way that she prefers to be pleased. You have to learn to read body language and react properly to her subtle hints. It's more like obtaining a degree, takes a long time and a lot of hard work, but in the end it pays off.

You should absolutely research g spot stimulation. Every girl i've been with afterward has been completely amazed, and some squirted for the first time from just my fingers. If you really wanna make a girl cum, the majority of women are going to be brought to orgasm with your fingers, not your cock. This does take time and excersize, I would literately work out with my fingers. There's a ton of information and how-to videos on the web about this, i suggest you watch and readas many as you can and combine all the information. And remember that your girl is unique, and you have to adapt techniques to her and her body.

Also, you're idea about adding another guy is a separate thing. If you both want to live out that fantasy, that's awesome, but it shouldn't be used as a "i can't do it, let him do it!" What happens when he doesn't make her cum either? Research, exercise, and communication dude. Good luck, and have FUN!

Best advice would be to completely take a break. Good thing that you're going to the doctor but on top of stretches you should be building muscle in your forearms and fingers.

Forearms = http://www.muscleandfitness.com/workouts/arms-exercises/9-exercises-massive-forearms

Grip = Grip Strengthener they're like 10$

Fingers = https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000UMHURY/ref=asc_df_B000UMHURY4986558/?tag=hyprod-20&creative=394997&creativeASIN=B000UMHURY&linkCode=df0&hvadid=167148646512&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=11681970060981047611&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9032151&hvtargid=pla-305102181559

Most hand injuries come from genetics, which is something you can't do anything about, or from tearing muscles faster than they're being repaired. So do what you can and build muscle in the groups you are using when playing smash.

There are some things you can do like practicing with a pick on some sort of edged surface that sort of approximates the feeling of strumming/picking strings just to practice your grip.

Using grip strengthening tools while your hands are free can be helpful as well. And I mean the normal grip exercise tools like this and NOT those janky little 'Gripmaster' things with the individual finger springs you'll sometimes see marketed to guitarists or hanging out at the GuitarCenter checkout counter. IMO they do a terrible job of emulating the feeling of pressing down on strings and are awkward and sometimes even painful with the strange angle you'll be holding it to attempt and build fretting finger strength.

Spend time doing paper music practice - transpose music/tabs, draw out the fretboard and fill in the correct notes, anything that might serve you as a learning tool AWAY from the guitar.

There are small travel size guitars or 'silent' guitars on the market you may be able to fit in your backpack as well as partial-guitars meant for practice but, honestly, I'd just bring your damn guitar with you. Nothing is going to beat having your hands on the actual instrument and all the tools/training aids I've seen just aren't quite the same enough that I'd want to spend money or time on them.

Aside from that just relax. Having time away from your instrument is good for rest and focus as well.

Make sure you have a good mouse/mousepad(would recommend EC2 Evo [or DA4G if you're 1.83+ meters tall] and Allsop XL Raindrop mousepad) and a high framerate config like this: http://pastebin.com/UV6usP3C
Using eagle pistol and nova colt(you can try going for max accuracy with nova colt and shooting each shot with long pauses inbetween like you would with a sniper rifle) will warm your fingers up better than using chain since the hitboxes for chain are bigger. Something I found that helped me both in getting my fingers ready and in relieving some stress(in general not just for games) is using handgrips: http://www.amazon.com/Gripmaster-Exerciser-Tension-9-Pounds-Finger/dp/B0006GCBL4/

Yeah, grip strength is a great test. You can get a fairly inexpensive dynanometer that is easy to chuck in your climbing bag. I find it useful to judge whether it is worth trying to do any sort of limit work. If my grip strength seems enough below my baseline, I stick to volume, or even skip the workout altogether.

There's a good chance that you need to keep your thumb lower on the back of the neck, it gives you much more mobility. If your pinky isn't strong enough, either use it a lot or get one of these to work out your pinky. I definitely think it's your grip, though. Slide your thumb , it should help.

And to get a clearer tone, make sure your fingers are as close to the right side of the fret as possible, it eliminates buzz and gives your tone more clarity. Obviously, make sure you push the string all the way down and don't mute any other strings.

Good luck!

It was very similar to this. Not sure if I used the same brand or the same amount of pounds per finger, but it was awesome. The main difference between it and just squeezing a ball is that those rubber balls help with strength, but this guy helps with controll, which was the issue I had :) Can't very well go about completing an arpeggio if your fingers are all over the place.

I'm a big fan of things that you can set up, and then as you walk by them in your house like do a rep just because. Much better than free weights which as you said, just gather dust!

Pull up bar (that has other useful uses)

Gripper (Can use at your desk!)

listen to music while you exercise - regardless of what mp3 player you use Music makes workouts fun!

Antranik's article about tendinitis was extremely helpful for me.

From his recommendation I also purchased this tool and it is the ONLY thing that has made my elbows feel better. I wholeheartedly endorse it! I purchased the red model, which is the second lightest resistance they have. I do not regret it. I've been using it for several years and haven't felt the need to increase the weight.

You are looking for the Tyler Twist exercises listed at the bottom of the Amazon page.

Good luck!

It's going to be pretty general unless I know what kind of instrument you play. However, I find that the gripmasters help a lot with individual finger strength. An exercise i would do for this would be 30 reps, then hold for 30 seconds, repeat.

If you want overall hand strength, false grip farmer walks, or anything false grip really.

Grab yourself one of these and use it while reading, watching TV, etc. https://www.amazon.com/Generic-Gripmaster-Hand-Exerciser/dp/B0085MX3SG

I noticed a pretty nice increase in pinky strength after about a week. I still use it to keep my hand strength up, for both hands.

I have mine on a keyboard tray below my desk top. I use towels underneath it to prop up the back and angle it to one side or the other. (I switch which hand uses it during the day. I draft all day on a CAD software that's almost completely mouse driven, so my keyboard doesn't actually sit on my keyboard tray most of the time.)

The other thing I do -- and this might sound weird -- I bought a NSD spinner thing to help with wrist strength (and hopefully alleviate some wrist pain too). I'm not very certain about this, but I think that using it may have helped my ability to hover my wrist over the wrist rest of the CST, rather than letting my wrist bear weight onto the device. When I started using my left hand with my CST, I had to make a point to get strong with the NSD spinner in both hands.

https://www.amazon.com/NSD-Power-Essential-Gyroscopic-Exerciser/dp/B007GGCLK8/

Also, see this guy's photos of his CST on his desk: https://www.reddit.com/r/Trackballs/comments/6tjv3s/replaced_my_trackpad_for_a_trackball_best/

https://puu.sh/x9v4h/d2d15f15a5.jpg

It's something that goes away with time, but if you want some assistance, get yourself a grip master, I keep one on my desk at work and I just play with it every once in a while, it definitely helps, especially with pinky strength. This is the one I have https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0006GBDZY/ref=twister_B0085MX3SG?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

If you are a beginner this 30$ one on Amazon is pretty good. Once you max out at 200 you can buy a more expensive Baseline brand one but they cost a whole lot more but they go up to 300 which I think is good for almost anyone. I think strong gripsters get around 250-280.

Most people just get grippers like Captains of Crush and work their way up the difficulty levels. You'll find "closing a 3" will be a more general way to compare strength with others in the community than "213lbs dynamometer close".

Get a pair of hand grips. Not only do they increase your grip strength, but they're great for your forearm development too.

The pump you'll see in your forearms after going to failure on these is very satisfying. :)

Example: http://www.amazon.com/Hand-Gripper-grips-Forearm-Strength/dp/B0017OSE1A

Don't worry about it. The BRC is a lot more clutch use than you'll actually do in the real world, and the rest of the exercise from maneuvering the bike will get easier as you learn proper throttle and brake control. I've seen tiny women handle big Harleys. You'll be fine.

You can also look at things to build up hand strength. Check out something like this to help out.

I've had tendinitis for over a year now. About 8 months ago I got a cortisone shot that lasted for about 6 months, and I felt great to the point where I just forgot about it. When it started creeping back, I started to research as I didn't want to get a another shot (it was excruciating for two days) and saw that it's just not a good long term solution anyways. My pain is on the inside arm bend through my lower arm and on the outside tip of my elbow. This was caused from excessive mouse work/clicking, which unfortunately I cannot just quit doing. Making a fist and extending my arm while flexing at the wrist is very painful.

I read about people having good luck with the Therband and immediately ordered one. The results have been mixed as I was starting to feel better after about a week, but has fluctuated as I may have over done the exercise to begin with. I'd recommend giving it a try, but GO SLOW! https://www.amazon.com/TheraBand-Tendonitis-Resistance-Tendinitis-Intermediate/dp/B000KGOMBC/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=theraband&qid=1574792778&sr=8-5

Good luck.

>I just read on /r/guns recently that those grip exercises are actually bad for trigger control and shooting. Basically, what the claim was is that they increase grip strength but decrease finger dexterity.

Did they provide source(s)? I'd be interested to see them.

There are also Gripmasters that let you isolate fingers, but I didn't find it as effective. I've also played with those gyroscope thingies. No noticeable difference in shooting performance, but they're fun to irritate people with while watching tv.

Let's be honest, though -- operating a pistol doesn't require that much finger dexterity. You're shooting, not painting the Mona Lisa.

If he can't get them tight enough he may have weak forearms. Something like this can help with that. As a bonus, forearm and grip strength will help to improve his shot and make it harder to knock his stick off the puck.

Additionally as others have said, it's all about practice. If you do it at home once or twice a day, in a week or two he shouldn't have any issue.

I bought one of these a couple weeks ago to help with the carpel tunnel / RSI I get in my left hand. I bought the red (medium tension) one and while I could use it I couldn't get many reps which is recommended over strength so I bought the blue (low tension) one as well. It's easy for my index and middle but then my ring finger and pinky get a workout. Now instead of twiddling a pen or something I'll use this throughout the day. Goal is to get all fingers to the same strength and then go back to the red one. It's definitely worth the $10.

Also as much as you don't want to. If you start to notice tingling in your fingers STOP PLAYING. That's a sign that you're getting carpel tunnel / rsi and you MUST STOP. Trying to get this message out to as many people as I can because I didn't stop and I've been dealing with this carpel tunnel stuff for a couple years now. If you have one of those foam stress balls squeeze that while you look over your battlestation. If it's the hand you're using the mouse (which apparently is more common but it wasn't for me, but also I got it while typing a lot) see if one finger bothers you more than others. If it's the finger you use for your right mouse button don't blame having to hold it down constanly, shift things around so it's easier to hold it down.

I've had tennis elbow, so not exactly golfer's elbow, and I tried stretching, rubbing, resting, etc. but the only thing that helped me was when I bought and used this

I went on YouTube to know what exercises to do with it. I watched a lot of videos but only found this guy to be helpful link

Hope you get better soon!

Some training aids are pretty affordable, like a grip trainer like this or a Powerball - these are kind of fun as a novelty gift too, although they do actually work.

Otherwise, can't go wrong with climbing dvds or books.

Definitely get a wrist brace, they will support your tendons and make a world of difference. I like these ones.

Also it's worth doing some exercises every day. I get tennis elbow and other tendon problems now and again and use a Theraband flexbar. There's a flexbar exercise called the Tyler Twist which is good for the tendons. The bar comes with a booklet showing a lot of exercises you can do with it.


Finally, consider taking astaxanthin every day. It's an antioxident with anti-inflammatory properties which really helps with tendon problems. You might also get some good results by taking a turmeric supplement (or adding it liberally to your food).

Ok, you sound exactly like me. I started 4 weeks ago aswell, immediatly got addicted went every other day and even 2 days in a row. Then I got golfers elbow. I started to much too fast and my ligaments were not developed enough to keep up with my muscle growth.

I bought this and followed YouTube exercises and its helped a lot.
https://www.amazon.com/TheraBand-Resistance-Epicondylitis-Tendonitis-Intermediate/dp/B00066D6K4/ref=pd_bxgy_328_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00066D6K4&pd_rd_r=G1H17NFHVQR76G1KYN00&pd_rd_w=3xahq&pd_rd_wg=nivTr&psc=1&refRID=G1H17NFHVQR76G1KYN00


Also start going once a week then twice a week and ramp up. Don't go straight in to 3 days a week off a week of rest. Build up and be patient. Im currently sitting out a week because I was too eager to go back in the same week.

Another thing I did was only climb the 3 V0 problem I knew perfect. I worked on my technique and how to climb them more efficient each time.

https://www.amazon.com/Heavy-Grips-Set-Strengthener-Professionals/dp/B000LLI9G0

I practice a ton of grip strength stuff. CoC are honestly better, but HG grips are still awesome and a good deal cheaper. CoC have a wider close sweep, but the difficulty is similar.

You mean one of these?

It only really helps for grip. You get better at musical instruments by playing musical instruments. Better at playing video games by playing more.

I suffered from RSI for a time after I started working (mainly ulnar nerve entrapment). I switched to Dvorak about 4 years ago because of the reported RSI relief. I also own an ErgodoxEZ which I use as my daily driver.

Overall I'd say that the switch to a more ergonomic keyboard was a bigger factor in minimizing RSI than switching keyboard layouts. It'll be much less of an adjustment as well, and you keep the portability of QWERTY. It took me close to a month and a half to get back to a proficient typing speed after switching, which may be a deal breaker for you.

I'd also recommend a TheraBand FlexBar to help with the wrist issues. It's really helped me out and I still use it whenever my wrists act up.

Good luck!

If you want to quickly develop calluses, I would suggest using a Gripmaster Hand Exerciser in combination with Ruff Rider Callus Builder Caps. Increased grip and finger strength is an added bonus.

My friend gave me some similar advice as some of these guys, saving pinky for shift or ctrl instead of pinky on Q like I had. He swears by these, too- strengthening your hand will make the position feel much less weird.

I've found this very helpful in helping the RSI in my ulnar nerve. Really helps keep bloodflow going, and keeps my hand from getting too tight if I use it every once in a while.

In case anyone grabs one, they spin almost on their own (very little input required) once you get them going fast enough, since it's a weighted gyroscope.

Can you give an example of hand strengtheners?

If you're talking about stuff like this, there isn't much information because they aren't as effective as other methods. I have this exact one and honestly it's more of a warm up than a strengthener. Hangboards and climbing are much more effective for grip training. Advice? Climbing will give train your grip better, but these can be used as warm ups.

> many from using the system boards/campus rungs

Most hand injuries I see are from hangboarding and climbing too many crimpy problems. Campus boards are relatively hard to injure your hands on unless you are full crimping or accidentally smash your finger against it. Are you referencing something else?

Mine never hurt me. I had one almost identical to this one--same place on the same wrist. It just didn't bother me but it slowly got larger and larger until I asked my doctor to drain it. He did it almost the exact same way as on this video too...

...Then he said, "oooey-gooey, thick and chewy!" just before he injected a steroid into my wrist to try to prevent it from recurring.

Edit: It did recur, but I got rid of it by using one of those hand strengthening things: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006GCBL4/

My theory is that it forces the joints to "open" enough that the synovial fluid can very gradually redistribute.

Which weight is best for starting grip strength? Should I pick up 2 different weights?

Captains of Crush Hand Gripper - Guide https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00079YNQQ/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_pfCGwb60EX920

Pinching power is a really specific thing to train at the beginner level. Something like barbell holds might be better - giving you that forearm burn. Also finger strength - get the item in the link below.

https://www.amazon.com/Hand-Finger-Exerciser-Medium-Tension/dp/B000UMHURY/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1526751164&sr=8-3&keywords=prohands%2Bgripmaster&th=1

For overall athleticism, do cardio (running, biking, hiking, whatever). And do core, either TRX or hanging leg raises.

Squat: Try and come up more evenly, you're raising your hips a lot faster than your chest and partially goodmorninging it.

Bench: Looks like you could pull your shoulderblades together more, and your grip looks super bad. click

Row: looks fine. Maybe put something under the plates to raise the bar up some more until you get to the point that you're using 45s just to help you with your positioning.

OHP: Don't push your neck forward like that. You also don't need to walk so far out, which will help you rerack it. more like dis

Deadlift: looked fine. You should start training your grip, because if you're having to use reversed at 120 you're going to have a real rough time. i used this set from amazon. Work grip every day that you're doing lifts. 3-5 sets to failure. Once you're getting a ridiculous number of reps out of one, move onto a harder one.

Keep it up.

When I started playing bass trombone primarily, I got some of those grip trainers and a stress ball to work on hand strength (something like this http://www.amazon.com/Fitness-Cathe-Starter-Hand-Grip/dp/B001FB614W/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1299733892&sr=8-3)
and that helped a lot, after a while, your hand will get accustomed to having to stretch further.

I have one of these, 5lbs is probably a little weak for you though. They seem better than the simple hand clamps.

Also I had a similar epiphany to yours, but I haven't started yet. :P I also noticed my hands getting stronger about a week after starting to use that thing. It really is that easy.

You want this.

Be proactive with your pain/injury, don't let it creep up on ya. Focused exercise will be the best long term maintenance.

Congrats on your first finish! While your shoulder is healing you could try these Captains of Crush . They really seemed to help with grip strength. Other than that try hanging a towel over a pull-up bar and just hang from it until you’re able to do more pull-ups.

Farmers walks and bar holds will help. Deadlifts and chins/pullups will also increase grip strength. Even better for guitar would be to get one of these.

I'm about to move from the light tension one to a medium tension myself and have noticed speed improvements in my playing.

I have the Titan multigrip and like it most for close grip bench. I don't use it a ton but I like having it for something different and so that I can use it whenever I have a wrist problem. It arrives with a ton of metal shavings inside the bar though, and they will fall out of the Titan logo that's cut into the middle of the bar. It'll go over your face when benching, so you'll want to spend time emptying it before use, or covering the logo. It's an annoyance but the bar itself is good, and I think the inexpensive option is the way to go with a bar that will only be used here and there.

I also had golfer's elbow for a while so I bought a TheraBand FlexBar. I can't say for sure that I got better because of it, but I can definitely say that I got better after using it. I can also say that it hasn't come back. Whenever I start to feel that tightness again I do the golfer's elbow exercise and the tightness has always improved. Before the FlexBar I worked out using a golfer's elbow strap that sits below the elbow and allowed me to work out with less pain.

Get a green Theraband flexbar and do the exercises for tennis elbow. Best thing for it. For healing and prevention

TheraBand FlexBar, Tennis Elbow Therapy Bar, Relieve Tendonitis Pain & Improve Grip Strength, Resistance Bar for Golfers Elbow & Tendinitis, Green, Medium, Intermediate https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000KGOMBC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_qMk7CbFGZ0E8C

Ha.

Not too long ago I recommended something like that and got downvoted for it. Have an upvote. :)

Early version of this were all the rage when I was learning.

But ok, now I know that stuff are considered rehab tools.

Thanks!

Damn, nice find. I bought this set of grippers and was pretty happy with the deal I got. Kindof wish I would have seen this a few months back, could have had the whole set in a more compact form for almost half price.

Looks a bit flimsy from the pic; do you think it's something that's built for the long-haul, iyo?

Good advice in here about calluses and playing a lot. But many of us don't have 2 hours per day! I wish I did though.

THIS is a big help in the beginning. Get the red one.

The best item I've seen that comes close to building up those muscles in the forearms is linked below. You basically spin a ball inside the device then use some kind of opposing gyroscopic force to keep it spinning/speed it up (excuse any incorrect terms, I'm not a physicist.) Other than that the only advice I can give is practice like you play.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B007GGCLK8/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1479783204&sr=8-1&m=A2L77EE7U53NWQ&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=gyro+forearm&dpPl=1&dpID=51JexoH%2BdJL&ref=plSrch#

One of these hand grip strengtheners (not necessarily this brand) will also help with fatigue and make it all easier.

https://www.amazon.com/Hand-Grip-Strengthener-Adjustable-Rehabilitation/dp/B00Q3KZ44S

I'm a relatively new rock climber at 10 months, but I can climb at about V7/8 and I want to step up my grip to get into harder routes such as V10s and up.
Which ones should I get? I ordered these (http://www.amazon.com/Hand-Gripper-grips-Forearm-Strength/dp/B0017OSE1A/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1396749687&sr=8-2&keywords=hand+grippers) before I saw this link to Cannon works and now I'm waiting for them so I don't know what grip I will be at. Do any of you know if the quality control on these is good? I would like to switch to those IM CoC grippers I think after I get my use out of the ones I purchased already.

I like gyroscopic wrist exercisers like this one for wrist strengthening too. It won't feel as intense as a forearm curl, but when you get it going fast for a minute or two, you'll feel it. The dynamic motion seems to get a lot more of the small muscles engaged too, as compared to a forearm curl.

Anecdotally, it helped me a lot with wrist-heavy exercises. My wrists used to hurt even holding myself up on parallel bars for bodyweight exercises. Doing much better now.

I disagree emphatically. The heavier the better. If I could get it 5lbs I would.

Then again... I play guitar so my fingers are quite strong. Maybe that is why I feel like I do. Also this https://www.amazon.com/Gripmaster-Exerciser-Medium-Tension-7-Pounds/dp/B0006GCBL4/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1498832428&sr=8-9&keywords=hand%2Bstrengthener&th=1

Don't know If it helps with lifting, but you could try using a Gripmaster to strengthen your grip. I know a lot of climbers use them to help with grip, although I can't really say if this would fix the problem with lifting. They come in various tensions so you can increase the difficulty as you get stronger. It's also good because you can use it to train while not at the gym, just while sitting at your desk or watching TV.

I use these at work while I'm sitting at my desk. Engage not just my forearm but the whole arm and it works pretty well.

I'd invest in a hand gripper, and squeeze it with wrist pronated, if you'd like subtlety, portability, and an exercise that'll net you better results.

(Though I admit, I used to have a 50lb dumbbell in my office and used that instead)

Get one of these
https://www.amazon.com/TheraBand-Resistance-Preventing-Tendonitis-Tendinitis/dp/B01N1UMUP4

Edit: just an FYI, what you want to do is the "Tyler Twist." There's a picture on the Amazon page, and there are also YouTube videos showing how to do it. I had to get the blue bar (highest resistance), they seem marketed toward people of average fitness so if you lift weights you'll find them easy to twist.

If your finger strength is holding you back, I've found grip trainers like this to be helpful, especially since you can use them during non-guitar time. https://www.amazon.com/GRIP-MASTER-Gripmaster-Hand-Exerciser/dp/B0085MX3SG

Here are the exercises that my Occupational Therapist friend gave to my husband with MS for his hands: http://imgur.com/a/ixtcR

Sorry if they are poor quality, I was unsure of the original source.

She also said that in the baseball section of your sporting goods store there should be a contraption like this that would help: http://bit.ly/2erBCbZ

I also found this: Gripmaster Hand Exerciser Blue, Light Tension (5-Pounds per Finger) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0006GBDZY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_QB0PzbC25TWCA

My husband is currently doing 5 days of high dose steroids that hopefully help.

Lbs. It's a super cheap hand dynamometer.

https://www.amazon.com/CAMRY-Dynamometer-Strength-Measurement-Capturing/dp/B00A8K4L84

Get a Gripmaster and start using it, both hands. I used to sprain a thumb every week before I got one, and now I haven't sprained any finger in over a year. You can use it while watching TV or in class, it's pretty awesome.

Work on grip strength! My dad suggested these to me, and THEY WORK. Legit. I use them a few minutes each evening when I'm lounging around, and after a couple weeks there was significant improvement.

Also, pick up some springy grip things or racketballs to squeeze in your spare time. Grip strength is pretty important.

I know it sounds gimmicky but doing the recommended exercise for tennis elbow with this flexbar completely fixed my tendinitis. If you are a strong dude you probably want the Heavy one.

TheraBand FlexBar: https://www.amazon.com/TheraBand-Tendonitis-Resistance-Tendinitis-Intermediate/dp/B000KGOMBC/

Heard about it on Rogan's podcast. It's amazing. Start with green or blue depending on how strong you are.

I don't use the video at work, just the moves I learned from the video. I'm always switching up my routine though to keep my workout breaks short so people don't think I'm slacking.

The room I exercise in is about the size of three washroom stalls, just long enough for pushups!

I'd also recommend getting a grip exerciser for your desk, it gives you something to do when waiting:

http://www.amazon.com/Gripmaster-Exerciser-Tension-5-Pounds-Finger/dp/B0006GBDZY/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1375453081&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=grip+trainer

I use the 11kg one and have increased grip strength tremendously while waiting for meetings/calls and etc.

Also, switch to a stand up desk or work on an exercise ball. Finally, you may learn some covert exercise moves from this:

http://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/diet-fitness/exercise-at-work/10-office-exercises-you-can-do-secretly.htm

These work wonders http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0085MX3SG/ref=s9_top_hm_awbw_by8fl_g200_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=mobile-hybrid-11&pf_rd_r=1QMEXTH62X5MFX517H54&pf_rd_t=30901&pf_rd_p=0b1d4446-e0f7-5cd4-b75e-ad8848112f97&pf_rd_i=14333021

Also, playing more is the ultimate solution. You could also try lighter gage strings at first, that tends to help as well.

Grip strengtheners you have 2 kinds/styles basically:

http://www.amazon.com/Gripmaster-Exerciser-XX-Heavy-Tension-13-Pound/dp/B00KH3L7KC/ref=sr_1_6?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1427717420&sr=1-6&keywords=grip+strengthener

http://www.amazon.com/Starter-Grips-1-Pair-Black-Chrome/dp/B00C87JKCW/ref=sr_1_5?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1427717420&sr=1-5&keywords=grip+strengthener

I like #1 a little better since you can focus on 1 finger if you wanted to.

Are the grip training rings/donuts any good? They have some good stars on amazon and are a lot cheaper than the COCs:

http://www.amazon.com/Grip-Pro-Trainer-Forearm-Strength/dp/B000NJHD1W/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1367903326&sr=8-3&keywords=grip+trainer

This is the kind that I got.

There are different resistance levels. I got green, or "firm". They aren't fucking around with this stuff. You really gotta squeeze the hell out of it for it to move. I might have gone the next step down.

They have stuff like this too, but I think it can be difficult depending on the hand size.

There are avenues to try, buddy. Give it a shot. Even a slight improvement is worth the work.

Well I decided to buy 2 grippers for now:


Captains of Crush Hand Gripper - Guide

Captains of Crush Hand Gripper - Sport

This thing helped me. I do the exercises and it stayed helping within a few days.

Biofreeze FlexBar Resistance Bar For Medial Epicondylitis, Prevent Tendonitis and Improve Grip Strength, Relieve Pain From Tennis Elbow, Golfers Elbow, and Tendinitis, Medium, Intermediate https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000KGOMBC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_6VnezbTSZJ30Y

I've been using this for a few weeks and it has greatly improved my grip strength. They really work if you use them regularly.

https://www.amazon.com/IronMind-Captains-Crush-Hand-Gripper/dp/B00079YNQQ/ref=sr_1_5?crid=3GZ6D060Y3YDS&keywords=grip%2Bstrength%2Btrainer&qid=1559094932&s=gateway&sprefix=grip%2Bst%2Caps%2C163&sr=8-5&th=1&psc=1

Ok so I was in a bad accident a few years ago, my left-hand grip strength is seriously lacking. A 1 plate DL is impossible for me right now because of it; I could probably get a rep or two but that would be all. Will these CoC grippers work better or should I get something like these adjustable grippers to start with?

Exercise and ibuprofen for any inflammation outbreaks. Increasing my hand strength and stretching my fingers out after a long day at the desk has worked wonders for me.

Get a theraband flexbar and do the exercises that strengthen your elbow. It works great. https://www.amazon.com/TheraBand-Tendonitis-Strength-Resistance-Tendinitis/dp/B000BPV3GO

Get in the habit of doing pushups after every climbing session to mitigate tendonitis in the future.

These are really good for wrists and outer elbow strength as well.

Or try the
heavy grips they are a bit cheaper than Captains of Crush but are still great quality.

TheraBand FlexBar, Tennis Elbow Therapy Bar, Relieve Tendonitis Pain & Improve Grip Strength, Resistance Bar for Golfers Elbow & Tendinitis, Blue, Heavy, Advanced https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000BPV3GO/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_dhQ8BbAXQT3JE

This thing completely solved my tennis elbow. It was amazing. There are lots of videos of the way to use it.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000KGOMBC/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

http://www.amazon.com/Gripmaster-Hand-Exerciser/dp/B0085MX3SG one of these things. I love mine and have managed to not lose it over about 4 years!

I run into the issue with dumb bell shrugs, I fell my grip is going to give before I fatigue my traps. I try not to use wrist wraps but they help. I have seen an improvement by using this gripmaster when I'm in traffic in the mornings.

Wrist roller: http://relativestrengthadvantage.com/wrist-roller-forearm-strength/
Gripmaster: http://www.amazon.com/Gripmaster-Strengthening-System-Medium-Tension/dp/B000UMFT22/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1418757894&sr=8-2&keywords=gripmaster&pebp=1418757906167
Hangboard training, farmer walks, and deadlifts will also help build forearm strength.

Quick question for you. Do you have any experience with these grippers that are supposed to work the fingers individually? I'm not sure whether to get that or just one of the more traditional adjustable ones like this. Or even one like this? Thanks :)

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NJHD1W/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This will help. This tool is actually very popular in Russia and other former Soviet states.

I'd suggest looking into getting a Theraband . That helped me when I started getting golfer's elbow. I also purchased elbow sleeves, they don't increase my lifts but they help to keep the elbows warm.

GRIP MASTER Gripmaster 14001-BLU Hand Exerciser Blue, Light Tension (5-Pounds per Finger) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0006GBDZY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_gZi1CbHP83B9Y

These are amazing, i keep one in my jacket pocket to keep discreet

Forearm size is I think relative to grip strength. When performing barbell exercises grip the bar very tight. Performing deadlifts attempting to use double overhand grips for as high weights as your grip can last.

Also search for grip strengtheners (as an example) and you'll find items that look like that. You'll have to ask around for brands to use as I would not know.

Well your stomach is naturally about the size of your fist so the best thing to do is get one of these and use it at least six times a day to make the muscles in your hand bigger which will make your fist bigger which will stretch your stomach!

I purchased this:http://www.amazon.com/Gripmaster-Strengthening-System-Medium-Tension/dp/B000UMFT22/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1418009606&sr=1-2&keywords=hand+strengthener
A couple days ago, and am hoping it will help.

Thera-Band Flexbar, Green, Medium https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000KGOMBC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_wNZJxbHG1W0TT

This is what I used. I forget what the exercises are called but there's one or two specifically for golfers elbow. Buy this, Google the exercises and play pain free. I used to have pretty bad tendinitis, couldn't throw a baseball more once or twice, by the end of the round my elbow would be burning and I could barely get through a workout. Fast forward to after I found this thing and I'm good for a round and a range session in the same day pain free and 99% pain free workouts also. Can't recommend it enough.

http://www.amazon.com/Gripmaster-Exerciser-Tension-9-Pounds-Finger/dp/B0006GCBL4 might help. My experience is the one i linked is a little to easy for me

I used to get a lot of finger injuries. I read on some pro climber's blog that they use one of these to warm up. He would just squeeze it the whole way while driving to the gym. I started doing this and my fingers have been feeling much better.

TheraBand FlexBar, Tennis Elbow Therapy Bar, Relieve Tendonitis Pain & Improve Grip Strength, Resistance Bar for Golfers Elbow & Tendinitis, Green, Medium, Intermediate https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000KGOMBC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_fvqXDb39D2RZY

I had the same issue. Took 2 weeks off and rehabbed with the therabar. Repping 225 again

I have one of those bars and I got bored of it pretty quickly. Not much you can do with it and as someone who also travels a lot, I prefer to keep these around instead for the extensors and this for flexor training. You can easily scale the training for extensors by using combinations of bands (although the thickest band is pretty difficult as is).

Maybe one of these will help, did for me and baseball. Sometimes I felt like I had arthritis after a long session.

https://www.amazon.com/Hand-Grip-Strengthener-Adjustable-Rehabilitation/dp/B00Q3KZ44S

Finger strength.

Gripmaster 14003-BLK Hand Exerciser Black, Heavy Tension (9-Pounds per Finger) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0006GCBL4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_CJ9VAbAP4KBW1

I also get some pain in my wrists, so I do the stretches before, DURING (end of rows), and after knitting. I'm not sure if it helps, but I use slidey metal needles instead of bamboo so there's less resistance in my movements. I haven't actually bought this yet, but I've been eyeing this Gyroscopic wrist exerciser on Amazon to help build up some strength in my wrists before I do any damage.

I use a very heavy frame that is headlight and plush, and still have elbow issues at times. I find using a Thera-Band and employing the Tyler Twist exercises keeps it in check nicely. Highly recommended.

I golf, climb, bike and lift 3-5 times each per week and have been fighting some combination of tendonitis, tennis elbow or golfer's elbow for the last 2 years.

If you can't just take the 6 weeks off to fix it, I recommend 3 things to keep it at bay.

1. Get a support brace. I have one similar to this and it definitely helps keeps things at bay: https://www.amazon.com/2-Pack-Tennis-Compression-PlayActive-Sports/dp/B015I2EC9O/ref=sr_1_5?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1466821065&sr=1-5&keywords=tennis+elbow+brace
   
   
2. Get a therabar and do the exercises. This helps more than the brace for me as it's basically antagonistic training. https://www.amazon.com/TheraBand-Resistance-Improving-Tendonitis-Intermediate/dp/B000KGOMBC/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1466821191&sr=1-2&keywords=therabar
   
   
3. Ice, compression and advil after any activity.
   
   The best option is just rest and PT / antagonistic training to get back to square 1, but if you're not willing to do that, then 1 and 3 will at least help keep things from getting worse in the short term.

Yes. Trust me. I've torn a Flexor Pulley, and it hurts. A lot. If you force yourself too much too this point, you won't be able to climb for a couple months (well, you're not supposed to). Any pressure on that finger will definitely start to hurt. I ripped mine in my right ring finger while bouldering, and I literally heard it tear. Some experienced climbers around me knew exactly what I did as soon as it happened, and they filled me in on my new sadness. Don't be like me :(.

Here's a good explanation on how the system works in your hands: http://www.orthobullets.com/hand/6004/flexor-pulley-system

Edit: Pick up these too if you're serious about getting into finger strength!

Gripmaster Hand Exerciser

Metolius Training Boards

Buy this in the green color. I had issues for a while and since getting this, they are all gone. I have a few buddies who have had the same results. The exercise is super simple and not strenuous. Buy it.

I assume price is a big factor based on what you posted, if it is then get these. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0017OSE1A?keywords=heavy%20grip&qid=1451484573&ref_=sr_1_2&sr=8-2

If its not goto cannon power works and but some nicer grippers.

Oh a the heavy grips 100, 150, and 200 have RGC poundages of 50, 70, 95 ish, they will vary.

tendinitis vs tendinosis:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3312643/

http://www.tendonpain.org/index.shtml

Stretching my wrists, doing a lot of high rep bicep and wrist curls as well as the theraband flexbar all help to keep my elbows happyish

For tennis/golfers elbow, you should try out a flex bar. They are no joke. There's different strengths, this ones intermediate and it worked well for me (lifter)





https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000KGOMBC/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1496718180&sr=8-7&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=theraband&dpPl=1&dpID=41OMUtvTLlL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

From a comment above

> For tennis/golfers elbow, you should try out a flex bar. They are no joke. There's different strengths, this ones intermediate and it worked well for me (lifter)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000KGOMBC/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1496718180&sr=8-7&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=theraband&dpPl=1&dpID=41OMUtvTLlL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

While good technique and a carefully selected gun can go a long way, I would also strongly recommend a grip strengthener. If she has problems racking the slide, I'd recommend starting with the blue (5lbs/finger), or maybe even the yellow (3lbs/finger).

Even just a couple minutes a day can considerably improve gun handling, tighten up groups, etc.

I'm starting to get some very annoying persistent elbow pain. It feels like a tendon is snapping back and forth across my funny bone and generally my elbows just don't feel very healthy. I feel this might be as much desk-jitsu related as jiu jitsu. Has anyone dealt with anything like this?

Further, thinking of buying a Flexbar. Anyone use one of these before? did it help with acute elbow/wrist issues?

I use the Theraband Flexbar. There are multiple colors, each representing a different resistance level, but the premise is basically that you’re loading the muscle while releasing, as opposed to how it’s loaded while you climb. Highly recommend it, and it works for both golfers and tennis elbow.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000KGOMBC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_aBgRAbH12F7EW

Something like this would work- (http://www.amazon.com/Outdoor-Research-Gripmaster-Hand-Exerciser/dp/B0085MX3SG) or my local store always has these balls that you can get as well.

I recommend purchasing one of these to help strengthen those weak hands

Wimps! Get one of these if you can't handle the snap!!

lol jk 9mm is cheap

If you really want to increase grip strength and forearms these are what you need to get.

Really not optional, but not included with those, are the foam covers

https://www.amazon.com/Black-Diamond-Momentum-Harness-Graphite/dp/B00LU59XF2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1480871087&sr=8-1&keywords=black+diamond+climbing+harness

is this harness pretty good, i just used the price point as a jumping off point, but what do you guys think of this?

Edit: oh was going to buy em this too, now is this actually good or is it some just novelty thing you guys would never even bother with?

https://www.amazon.com/Gripmaster-Exerciser-Tension-5-Pounds-Finger/dp/B0006GBDZY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1480871200&sr=8-2&keywords=gripmaster

The Heavy Grips here on Amazon comes in sets of three at 100, 150, and 200 lbs, or alternatively a different set that comes in 150, 200, 250 lbs. How should I know which one's I should start with? 100 lbs seems pretty high but I don't have anything to compare that to, is it a normal starting weight?

It depends on what the problem is exactly. I had patellar tendonitis, which responded well by doing quad stretches. Using resistance bands can help strengthen them also. Although I've never had elbow tendonitis, many people who have tennis elbow use this: http://www.amazon.com/TheraBand-26101-Thera-Band-Flexbar-Medium/dp/B000KGOMBC

This fixed my tennis elbow and I was able to lift heavy again. I used it daily and between sets for quick relief and when the pain started going away worked on my forearm strength with isolated exercises. Took about 2 months to heal. Resting my arm didn't help, at night when it would get cold I would wake up in pain. You need therapy with the flex bar or it will not just heal on its own.

TheraBand FlexBar Resistance Bar For Medial Epicondylitis, Prevent Tendonitis and Improve Grip Strength, Relieve Pain From Tennis Elbow, Golfers Elbow, and Tendinitis, Heavy, Advanced https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000BPV3GO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_0GbKybVD2XB1Q

The lever is never going to change regardless of what you buy.

However if you get something like this, and keep at it at work you'll be fine

http://www.amazon.com/Gripmaster-Exerciser-Tension-9-Pounds-Finger/dp/B0006GCBL4?ie=UTF8&keywords=grip%20strengthener&qid=1465361945&ref_=sr_1_6&sr=8-6

Get a Powerball. It'll give you hulk grip even if you don't lift at all. Fun too.

save you and her a lot of headache with this and many other areas in your life, and buy this, keep it by the toilet to use during bowel movements.

http://www.amazon.com/Gripmaster-Exerciser-Tension-9-Pounds-Finger/dp/B0006GCBL4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1425582971&sr=8-1&keywords=hand+strengthener

I have one of these To keep my strength up and keep me occupied.

1.Hand Strengthener
2. Yahtzee
3. I didn't know they made a third "thing" movie lol

Barre chords are tough for all of us in the beginning. Small hands aren't the problem, if your finger can make it across the fretboard. Finger strength and the ability to bring all the strings to the fret with one finger can be. I'd suggest buying this and keep it in your pocket. Whenever you watch TV or have down time, bring it out and use it. I have small hands and my teacher had me get one. It helped me. He also sent me a video of an armless guy playing pretty amazing guitar with his toes with the comment 'Short fingers LOL'. Accept your limitations, but don't let them get in your way. If you want it bad enough, it's yours.

You need to strengthen your wrist and workout dude. I used to have shitty issues with my wrists before the military. Once I started working out all my wrist/elbow issues went away.

1. Get a grip trainer
   
2. Get a power ball/Gyro
   
3. Start working out. Pushups, situps, squats. Hell, do Yoga.
   
4. Once you are out of the cast, lay off the damn games for a couple weeks, or you're going to have the same issues.
   
5. Make sure when you DO play games, you have your desk, chair, and wrists at the proper position. Having kinked wrists will cause most carpal tunnel issues that I have seen and experienced. If you can afford it, a standing desk is best, period.
   
   
   I guess these are just my views, but getting a standing desk (the apex pro one from costco is great) and working out lessened all my wrist issues, and now, 10 years after the military I have zero wrist/elbow issues even when I play games for 5 hours after working for 8 hrs at a keyboard.

See your doctor/physio. Try exercising your wrists and hands in different ways. I find pushups, a powerball hand exerciser (example: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Powerball-Classic-Gyroscopic-Exerciser-250HZ/dp/B000GQJZJA/) and a squeezy hand exercise (example: https://www.amazon.co.uk/ProHands-Gripmaster-Tension-Finger-Exerciser/dp/B0006GCBL4/) with a spring for individual fingers fixes the problem and stops it coming back.

Good luck. That injury is slow to heal... The brace didn't really help me. Yes, it felt sort of nice to have the pressure, but it didn't seem to solve the problem. I found that strengthening with the Theraband Flexbar (green) was the single biggest factor in my recovery. https://www.amazon.com/TheraBand-Tendonitis-Resistance-Tendinitis-Intermediate/dp/B000KGOMBC/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=213C1FKRMID4Z&keywords=theraband+flexbar+green&qid=1562694719&s=gateway&sprefix=thereband+fl%2Caps%2C224&sr=8-2-spons&psc=1

Get one of these: https://www.amazon.com/GRIP-MASTER-Gripmaster-Hand-Exerciser/dp/B0085MX3SG haha

I stopped at Thanksgiving. It is better but not great. I don't want to go back and go back to square 1. I went to one doctor and he didn't do shit! Basically told me that I have tendinitis and have a good day. Nothing to help. I got one of these. It seemed to irritate it then help. I forgot about it actually. I am going to get a second opinion. Some people train through it. I don't think that is wise since you don't know exactly what is going on and you may be out longer than if you just sucked it up and stopped.

My school suspended my account. I get videos every morning and people getting stripes and belts and it eats me up inside.

Good luck!!!!!!

Try this for your tendonitis: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000KGOMBC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_FvglDbGT004KM

Worked for me. There's some good exercises on YouTube if you just search "flexbar"

Buy a gripmaster. We used to use these to improve our grip (hand/finger strength) in wrestling.

http://www.amazon.com/Gripmaster-Pro-Strengthening-System-Tension/dp/B000UMHURY/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1345052160&sr=8-3&keywords=finger+strength

Funny that you posted this, I just bought this yesterday
http://www.amazon.com/Gripmaster-Hand-Exerciser/dp/B0085MX3SG

Get one of these, it really helps after a couple months of use

Something like this perhaps?

Yeah, me too.

I mean, it's not terrible expensive to find out?

Ice and a therabar. https://www.amazon.com/TheraBand-Resistance-Epicondylitis-Tendonitis-Intermediate/dp/B000KGOMBC/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1496967355&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=theraband+flexbar&psc=1

Thing saved my season two years ago

it's a common climbing injury, my boyfriend gets it frequently. he bought a flex bar which helps ease the pain. it's something that doesn't go away easily, so rest is the best remedy.

I don't know how effective this is from practical experience. The videos on YouTube make it sound as though its an incredible solution

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003XWXRYS/ref=twister_B07NX7JXXH?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=climbers+elbow&link_code=qs&qid=1558147008&s=gateway&sourceid=Mozilla-search&sr=8-1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000KGOMBC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I was running into this same issue about a month ago, purchased this and have been using it daily and it's been doing wonders. Feeling full strength in my left arm that prior had been battling carpal tunnel and climber's elbow for months.

Let me introduce you to the Captain of Crush (COC) grip trainers.

I can't even begin how to describe how much these have helped with my grip strength. I have the trainer, 1, and 2 models. Come check out /r/griptraining.

You might be able to find one of these types of things that allows you to grip it like you do a can. The higher tension ones certainly would be enough to train with.

Grip exerciser - I'm trying to recover strength and dexterity in my fingers so I can play guitar again. I haven't been able to play since I had an accident a few years back.

If you're going to buy grippers, look for ones like these instead of the cheap ones that you can do a million reps with.

Have you tried using grippers like these?

http://www.amazon.com/Hand-Gripper-grips-Forearm-Strength/dp/B0017OSE1A

> I'd like some kind of spring loaded pinky finger exerciser so I can fire my Limitless with my pinky

Check out the Gripmaster. It comes with a myriad of exercises, one of which is bound to be for the pinky.

I recommend the purchase of a gripmaster

get something like this:

https://www.amazon.com/Hand-Grip-Strengthener-Adjustable-Rehabilitation/dp/B00Q3KZ44S

Get that grip ready my guy.

https://www.amazon.com/TheraBand-Resistance-Preventing-Tendonitis-Tendinitis/dp/B01N1UMUP4

I recommend one of these big time.

Everytime I attend a meeting with someone giving me an iron-grip handshake, I don't think they're a strong leader.

My only impressions are:

1. Oww... this asshole's hurting my hand.
   
   
2. wtf, did he read some b.s. self-help book from the 80's about how giving a strong handshake is proportional to your leadership?
   
   
3. Fuck this guy.
   
   I use this while working regularly: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00Q3KZ44S/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
   
   I too can place your fingers in a pressure vise, I'm just not an asshole.
   
   
   

Good question. For one, I stopped doing the lifts that were hurting it - mainly bicep and upper back work. I had to rest for a few months just to do the rehab exercises without pain. Then I bought one of the TheraBand Flex Bars and Grip Strengtheners. Both exercises strengthen your forearms and within a couple of months of those exercises I was pain free and lifting again.

It sounds like for $30 you should go ahead and get the dynamometer. I believe on some training beta podcast they talk about how they use it, but i can't recall what episode it is.

https://www.amazon.com/CAMRY-Dynamometer-Strength-Measurement-Capturing/dp/B00A8K4L84/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=VTGJCAR8KWLR&keywords=hand+dynamometer+grip+strength&qid=1570468645&sprefix=hand+dy%2Caps%2C145&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzTktLMkwyMFJJWkU0JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMTU5MTk3MUJORUs2WVZLWFQ3TCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMDkwOTY0MTVLNElEVTdDR1laOCZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=

They have things like this and this and dozens of others if you just want to work on finger strength.

Also I can't stress this enough, relax your arm and make sure the grip you are using is the right size for your hand. If its the right size but shaped wrong in a few places you can always use tape or sugru to change the surface geometry.

I got one of these from when I got tendonitis in the past due to crappy pull up form and haven't touched it since I rehabbed my tendonitis. Would using this to train my extensors be be just as beneficial? I feel like that's the only thing I don't train on a regular basis since I can't really see a regular application of that muscle.

bass strings are really thick and have lots of tension. in your off time where you're not playing bass, play with this and come home to your bass and you shall feel your fingers dominate the tension (not guaranteed instant results)

on a serious note, this especially helps when your finger tips start to hurt/callus. you can use this to strengthen your fingers while your tips heal.

also, when you start practicing on the bass/using this, make sure all four of your fingers are on the fretboard/on the plastic as you press in a single fret/plastic. just a good habit to form for the future of your bass playing

EDIT: want to make my third point more clear, you don't want to stick out the fingers that isn't pressing down, always keep all fingers close to the fretboard

I'm also currently in process of getting rid of elbow tendinitis and would say it's around 80% healed, 90% on better days. It's from too much volume of climbing and bwf combined. The best tip to get rid of it was to get TheraBand and after I started RELIGIOUSLY doing 3 sets of 15 every day, it's improved in 2 weeks so much, compared to last 2-3 months.

The worst injury? I overtrained my left shoulder by doing to many muscle ups with improper technique and continued doing long sets with chicken winging when I got tired (one arm over bar first, second one follows). It got to the point I wasn't able to to 5 pull ups anymore. Dropped all of it, let it heal and started from basics, focused on strength training and stopped doing muscle ups for almost 2 years (I had a mental block and wasn't able to get over the bar with both arms at the same time as if the pain was still there). Conditioned the sh*t out of it, came back stronger, re-learned muscle ups last year.