The grip is very often forgotten about when kettlebell training but it is one of the most important survival instincts that we have.
Our ancestors would have required a strong grip to hold onto wild food they had just caught or to prevent themselves falling while holding onto a branch or similar appendage.
Our hands have more sensors in them than our whole arm combined.
The neurological pathway from our hands communicates with the brain and causes primal instincts throughout the body. In other words our hands produce a huge sensory feedback just like our eyes and ears. This is one reason why you should never wear gloves when kettlebell training.
One very important connection is between the Grip and the Shoulder. As we grip hard with our hands our shoulder tightens and the rotator cuff muscles get switched on. This whole activation process takes place to ensure that the shoulder is primed and ready for whatever may happen with whatever is in the hand. An unprepared shoulder may be dislocated, or cause soft tissue damage.
As the shoulder is activated by the grip the stabilizing muscles provide a solid base for the large prime mover muscles to work off. A well activated shoulder not only means a safer shoulder but also a stronger shoulder.
So, whenever you press a kettlebell or hold the bell in an unstable position the addition of a tight grip is crucial. Just making this slight alteration to your training will not only improve your strength but provide an injury proof shoulder too.
Enjoy your workouts!
Leave a Reply