Hand Strength

Because there’s no weight machine for hands at the gym, most of us probably don’t even think of exercising them. However, building and maintaining hand strength can take the struggle out of many everyday tasks, such as putting away groceries, opening bottles and jars, or even keeping a firm grip on your dog’s leash. This simple exercise from the National Institute on Aging is great for multitasking — you can do it while reading or watching TV. Here’s how:
Hold a tennis ball or other small rubber or foam ball in your right hand. Slowly squeeze the ball as hard as you can and hold it for three to five seconds. Relax the squeeze slowly. Repeat 10 to 15 times. Repeat 10 to 15 times with the left hand. Repeat 10 to 15 times more with each hand.