Since most jiu jitsu is practiced wearing a gi, learning to use it for both offensive and defensive purposes is critically important. I'm not at that point yet. In fact, my opponents routinely pull and twist my gi in ways that seem to defy the laws of science. I'm pretty sure I've been choked with my own pant leg.
Anyway, I did learn one important lesson- strengthening our grip makes all the difference.
The ability to grasp, twist, and maintain a hold on our opponent's gi allows us to do a lot of stuff. If they can't break our grip, it gets a lot more difficult to escape, pass guard, or counter a submission.
Jiu jitsu isn't the only reason peopel build grip strength. Apparently it's a hobby. People also build it for recreational purposes:
How's that for an obscure character reference? ;-)
Anyway, how do we build grip strength?
There are a lot of devices on the market designed build grip strength. I prefer the simple approach- racket balls. They're cheap. Easy to find. Simple to use. I like to use the following routine:
- Hold the ball with your index and middle fingers. Squeeze the ball hard 20 times.Switch hands, repeat.
- Hold the ball with your pinky and index fingers. Squeeze the ball hard 20 times. Switch hands, repeat.
- Hold the ball with your middle and ring fingers. Squeeze the ball hard 20 times. Switch hands, repeat.
- Hold the ball between your thumb and index finger. Squeeze hard with your thumb 20 times. Switch hands, repeat.
- Hold the ball in the middle of your hand. Squeeze hard 20 times with all your fingers. Switch hands, repeat.
Start with this routine once per day for a week. Add one complete set each subsequent week. You're be tearing phone books in half in no time. And dominating your opponent with your iron grip!
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