Hold strong

A strong grip is the secret to a healthy heart

Nothing conveys strength and commands respect like a firm handshake – but it signifies more than just confidence, according to a new study published in The Lancet. The same grip strength that allows you to exude such power is also indicative of a healthy heart.

The study, which assessed the grip strength of 139,000 people over four years, found it directly correlated with risk of cardiovascular mortality. Simply put, the stronger your grip, the healthier your heart. Grip strength was used as an indication of overall strength – and quite rightly. It’s typically your weakest link and the first thing to fail before your larger muscle groups when doing lifts such as deadlifts and pull-ups.

So how can you boost your grip and strengthen your heart? Ditch the straps. A 2011 study in the Journal Of Strength And Conditioning Research advised against using straps or other aids if you want to build better grip strength – which should lead to bigger gains, more strength and a healthier ticker. Instead, add towel pull-ups to failure at the end of your workout to boost your hand strength.