Hand Strength

[Emily Jackson]

I know I'm getting no younger
After leaving my desk job and spending more time on DIY projects, gardening, and general hands on stuff these days I've noticed my grip strength isn't quite where it should be and really it's not just about opening jars, it kinda came up when I started doing more home maintenance and even when traveling, hauling bags or dealing with tools, just a little reflection, how many of us actually bthink about physical readiness, not just financial, when planning for an active early retirement.

 

[passengerpigeon]

I get what you mean. Mine is also not as good as before but squishy balls help. I squeeze it as hard as I can for 3-5 seconds, then release. Repeat 10-15 times per hand, 2-3 sets. from what I read, this can build what they call the crushing grip.

I'd like to think that it is not too late to improve on my physical health as well. Keep up the great work with the DIY and gardening!

 

[FrugalLyf]

I know I'm getting no younger
After leaving my desk job and spending more time on DIY projects, gardening, and general hands on stuff these days I've noticed my grip strength isn't quite where it should be and really it's not just about opening jars, it kinda came up when I started doing more home maintenance and even when traveling, hauling bags or dealing with tools, just a little reflection, how many of us actually bthink about physical readiness, not just financial, when planning for an active early retirement.

It's definitely important to consider physical readiness, not just financial planning, for an active early retirement!
Adding some grip-strengthening exercises to your routine could be beneficial.
You could try something like using a hand-gripper or even doing some farmers' carries with weights.
There should be plenty of simple exercise routines you can follow on YouTube!

 

[coconut-journey78]

Great point! It's so easy to focus on the numbers and forget the physical side. You can try those resistance bands, you can find them on Amazon or ebay. Also, how about rotating tools with wider handles? that can reduce hand strain. We just need to stay mobile as much as we can. Good luck to us!

 

[Emily Jackson]

@coconut-journey78 I never thought about the wider handle tools but that makes sense, might explain why some tasks feel harder than they should. I'll look into that when I replace stuff
Going to start with the grip exercises and see where that goes. Thanks everyone!