Grip Training for Obstacle Course Racing (OCR)
Build grip strength and endurance
If you’re an obstacle course runner—whether an American Ninja star, Tough Mudder veteran, or just starting off—grip strength and endurance are key to your success.
If you want a little theory on grip strength to guide what you do, IronMind’s Crushed-To-Dust! Cube will give you the lay of the land.
And if you ready to jump in and start training, here are some guidelines:
Most of the grip-related challenges you will face will depend upon the strength and endurance of your crushing grip, so if you were to choose just one training tool, it should be a Captains of Crush gripper, the fastest route to a stronger grip.
Captains of Crush Grippers
Although it might seem paradoxical, because there is so much emphasis on your crushing grip, the second most important training tool is Expand-Your-Hand Bands, which focus on the extensors (the muscles that open your hand). Expand-Your-Hand Bands will help you achieve muscle balance, avoid overuse injuries, and stay strong and healthy from elbows to fingertips.
Expand-Your-Hand Bands
The Rolling Thunder, for deadlifts, holds for time, and pullups, and the CoC Silver Bullet give you another tack for developing strength–endurance.
Rolling Thunder CoC Silver Bullet
Unlike crushing grip, pinch gripping hinges on the strength of your thumb, so think IMTUG or Titan’s Telegraph Key.
IMTUG Grippers Titan's Telegraph Key
Visit the IronMind e-store for more crushing grip and pinch grip training tools.
Download IronMind's free training booklets here
Strong Hands, Healthy Hands Booklet
4 Grippers 1 Goal Training Booklet
Captains of Crush Grippers Instruction Booklet
Further reading:
IronMind Wrist/Forearm Strength Tools
