Is grip strength a measure of how strong you are?

Here's something you probably don't think about very often — how strong is your grip?

Grip strength is more important than you might realise. It's involved in everyday activities such as carrying shopping, opening jars, picking things up and even holding onto a suitcase.

It's also an important part of many exercises. Think about deadlifts, rows, kettlebell exercises, pull-ups and farmer's carries. If your grip gives up before the muscles you're actually trying to train, it can limit how much work you can do.

Is grip strength a measure of how strong you are?

To a degree, yes.

A strong grip can be a useful indicator of overall muscular strength and physical capability, particularly as we get older. However, someone can have a very strong grip but still have relatively weak legs, chest or shoulders.

That's why I wouldn't use grip strength on its own to judge how strong someone is. It's simply one piece of the puzzle.

Why should you train your grip?

The good news is that you don't necessarily need a specific grip-strength workout.

Exercises such as:

• Farmer's carries

• Deadlifts

• Kettlebell swings

• Dumbbell rows

• Pull-ups

• Holding heavier weights

will all challenge your grip.

And just like any other part of your body, your grip can get stronger with progressive training.

Something worth thinking about...

Next time you're carrying your shopping bags, picking up a heavy dumbbell or doing a set of deadlifts, think about your grip.

You might not realise it, but those hands are doing a lot of work!

Keep training, keep progressing and don't forget the little things — they all add up.

Mo

SlimFit PT