Knowledge Hub

Once one has trained his or her grip strength for some time, they might decide they want to test their level of strength and compare it to others. One way to do so would be an attempt at certifying for a recognized grip strength feat. Another would be to take part in a GripSport (or “Armlifting”) competition. In this article I want to give some advice on the necessary steps to be taken and share some general thoughts on this field.

The King Kong Grip Challenge is the Super Bowl of Grip Sport and Arm Lifting events. It is held annually on the same day across the globe to determine the grip strength champion of the world. Do you have what it takes to being home the Golden Kong?

We had a chance to chat with Robert Spindler and ask him a few questions about stongman, grip training, and his past records and feats of strength. He is an Oldtime Strongman that has been performing the "mind-blowing feats of strength" of the early 20th century, for the past twenty plus years. Robert also co-authored a book with Tommy Heslep called Grip Strength: How to Close Heavy Duty Hand Grippers, Lift Thick Bar Weights, and Pinch Grip Just About Anything.

After meeting Jim Stoppani Sr. at the Mr. Olympia Fitness Expo about 10 years ago, and seeing him there every year since, we really wanted to share his story and his experiences in the fitness industry, specifically relating to grip strength. From not being able to lift a 20 lb ball at his first exposition to representing ProMera and Con-Cret at fitness expos all over the nation, and Hub lifting a massive 73 lbs - check out his story in his own words.

Grip strength is the measure of how strongly you can pull, push, or hold certain objects by your hands against resistance. It is a powerful predictor of overall muscle strength. There are three types of grip strength (crushing grip, pinch grip, and supporting grip), and you can improve every type by performing different exercises. Grip strength training gives you a firm grip, increases muscle endurance, helps prevent injuries, and strengthens forearms. It also increases sports performance and lessens risk of injury due to a weak grip. Grip strength is a crucial goal to achieve excellence in any sport, or for daily tasks that require a reliable grip.