Finger Strength

[Biggs]

Inspired by another poster's christmas list:

Are those finger strengthening things (e.g. like https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DDPRENY/re ... 0QGYRUJWOC)

any good? As I have a long commute, I think it might be a productive use of my time if they work. Does anyone have a model they recommend?

[arpthark]

I recall bloke made a post about this a couple months ago:

viewtopic.php?t=72902&p=591852" target="_blank

[Mark]

I find them helpful. The GripMaster is the best brand.

[timothy42b]

When I had to learn euph quick (because I told the director I could play when he asked. In my defense, I didn't know I could NOT play it, never having tried) I built a little practice keyboard. You could use my design and just add stronger springs. I used my downtime at work to run scales out of the Arban book.

I'll upload a photo later if you're interested, and I can figure out how.

[tbonesullivan]

I have heard mixed things about those devices from string players. While they are good, you can cause repetitive motion problems using them incorrectly. Ergonomics is something thought about far more these days, so make sure whether you use a grip strengthener or just practice more, make sure you avoid strain.

[ArnoldGottlieb]

I've had some hand issues over the years and am getting over one right now. These are more 'bass' related, and sometimes more computer related, but, I've spent a lot of time with Drs. and specialists and from them I have learned that I would never use a tool that mimics the repetitive motion aspects of playing an instrument, and when I think about it, the payoff of playing is the sound or vibrations or something intangible about it, and that tool gives none of those. What I would do in the car, is squeeze a tennis ball, there are many complimentary tendons and muscles that don't get used in playing, and when we use them the whole human machine improves. I tried stretching my fingers and wrists in the car, but recently some idiot rear ended my (likely 'Bloke approved') old, tanklike awesome Volvo (his loss), and I realized that if I was stretching my fingers or wrists at that point, I'd be looking for a left handed instrument, so I don't do that any more.