Q: I'm a beginning climber. My hands and forearms are relatively weak, and cramp up easily. What are the best exercises to increase hand and forearm strength?
A: If you can do a pull-up, try modifying the traditional technique by draping two gym towels over the pull-up bar so both ends of each towel hang down. Then perform your chin-ups and pull-ups gripping the towels, not the bar. This poses a greater challenge to the strength of your hands, wrists and forearms.
Too hard? Try hanging from the bar with your arms and body completely straight, and increase your hang time each session. When you're able to hang for a minute, make it harder by wearing a weight vest or hang using just one hand for a short period of time before switching hands and alternating back and forth.
© Core Performance
Abbott Nutrition strongly recommends that you consult with your physician before beginning any exercise program and perform exercises under the supervision of a certified fitness trainer or conditioning coach. The effect of any specific exercise on a medical condition should be determined by your health care professional. The suggestions here are in no way intended to substitute for medical advice.
