We use our hands to do just about everything. When we're working, when we're on our phone or computer, when we're holding a baby, or even just eating lunch.
And, for the amount that we do with them, it's very rare to hear someone talking about their hand workout.
Yes, we hear about hand aches and pains, but never about everyday stretches that we can do to avoid these aches and pains.
It's really so simple to keep your hands in shape so that you never have to deal with the small setbacks that plague most people on a daily basis.
Especially these days, with the amount of time that we spend on phones or computers, it's important to be mindful about the damage that these repetitive motions are doing to our hands so that we don't have to resort to painkillers or other not-so-natural fixes.
We're using our hands more than ever to operate handheld devices, and it can lead to problems down the line, not to mention the small aches and pains that we feel after a particularly intense game of Candy Crush.
By doing these exercises, you will be combatting the pain that comes from these types of everyday use.
Below is a list of nine exercises that will keep your hands in tip-top shape, and keep you moving as your muscles and bones grow older.
1. The Fist Squeeze
Beginning with your hand open wide, pull your fingers into a comfortable fist and hold for 30 to 60 seconds before stretching your fingers up again.
2. The Pincher
Using each finger (separately) and your thumb, pinch a small section of a soft ball for 30 to 60 seconds. Repeat 10 to 15 times, and do this exercise three days per week with a 48-hour break between sections.
3. The Claw Clench
Beginning with your hand open and the palm facing toward you, bend your fingers down until the tips touch the base. Hold for 30 to 60 seconds.
4. The Rubber Band Resistor
Place a rubber band on your hand just below your finger joints. Slowly move your thumb away, stretching the rubber band as far as you can. Do this 10 to 15 times, three days a week, with a 48-hour break between sessions.
5. The Finger Tap
Place your hand, palm down, on a flat surface. Slowly lift one finger at a time, then lower it back down until your palm is flat again. Repeat 10 times with each hand.
6. The Friendly Thumb
Simply touch the tip of your index finger to the tip of your thumb, then repeat with each finger, holding for 30 to 60 seconds each time.
7. The Ultra Grip
Squeeze a soft ball in the palm of your hand as tightly as you can for 10 to 15 seconds, then release. Do this three times a week with a 48-hour break in between each workout.
8. The Flashback
This is an easy one! Just grab some Play-Doh and start building. Play-Doh’s resistance works as a great exercise for your fingers and can even increase your range of motion.
9. The Dancing Thumb
Beginning with your hand stretched, move your thumb as far from the other fingers as possible. Next, reach your thumb across your hand until it touches the base of your pinky finger. Hold for 30 to 60 seconds, then release.
If you think these hand and thumb stretches are helpful, please SHARE this list with friends and family!
