Thumb Strengthening

[PinchBlocks]

Tried this early today its most likely been done

Took a three foot section of 2X4 and put held it by pinching it with my thumb on top and my fingers on the bottom. I added about 2lbs at the end of the 2X4 it definitely took some thumb strength to hold the board up.

I am just wondering if anyone has done this and if they thought it increased their strength in their thumbs. Also does the IM titan telegraph key simulate this.

[EricMilfeld]

This will increase thumb strength, but my guess is the thumbs wouldn't be the weak link for most people with this particular exercise. There should be a good deal of wrist and finger strength involved as well. It sounds a lot like a plate wrist curl, as far as muscle involvement. Did you find your thumbs to be the weak link? Sounds like a fun grip exercise, nonetheless!

Edited April 15, 2004 by EricMilfeld

[Davekline]

You might consider drilling a hole at one end so you can mount a 1 1/2" diameter wooden dowel perpendicular to the board. This would allow you to securely place a small plate or two on the end of the board for adjustable resistance.

[PinchBlocks]

I felt that my thumbs were being used to a certain extent. If I continuously add weight my thumbs would struggle more and more. I feel pretty stable in the fingers and wrist department. So I guess my thumbs are the weak link in this exercise.

Basically I am trying to find ways to strengthen my thumbs so that I can be able to pinch half my weight. That being 65lbs. Right now I am able to pinch two 25s and that is without any training. I am pretty sure that with some thumb training I will be able to pinch 65 sooner than later.