Get a grip!

Sculpting strong, toned arms is totally within your grasp – all that’s needed is a bit of handiwork.

Hauling five bags of groceries requires not just killer arms, but also a strong grip. Weak hand and wrist muscles are very common, but toning those micro muscles can help prevent tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome and arthritis and even improve fine motor skills. This will make everyday things, such as hooking your bra, throwing or catching a ball, much easier. The best part? Getting a better handle on the situation isn’t hard. So, start doing these moves and you’ll be holding your own before you know it.

You don’t need dumbbells to work your grip strength. Just grab onto the following household items to build a stronger handshake in no time.

STRESS BALL SQUEEZE Squish a stress ball (a tennis ball works just as well) with your entire hand for five to 10 pulses. Repeat using just your thumb and pointer finger. Progress through each finger, switch hands and then repeat sequence. WRIST ROTATION Grasp an unopened wine bottle or the handle of a cast-iron pan, keeping your upper arm by your side and your elbow bent at 90 degrees. Rotate bottle or pan toward your body, turn it back to the centre, and then rotate it in the opposite direction. Do two or three sets of 20 to 30 reps. Switch hands and repeat.

BOOK PINCH Using two books of the same size (preferably textbooks), grip one in each hand, with arms at sides. Squeeze with fingers for 30 seconds, then relax for 30 seconds. Do three to five sets.

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