Fitness
Our Guide to the Best Rowing Machines in Canada in 2024 (And Where to Get Them)
No matter what you’re feelings are towards daily exercise, a rowing machine might be the next big thing for your home gym. They can help you improve your heart health (who’s opposed to that?) while building strength in all of your major muscles… core, legs, and arms! Plus, it’s a low-impact form of exercise that won’t aggravate injuries or take a toll on your joints. Sounds like a pretty sweet deal, right?
If a rowing machine sounds like the perfect way to meet your exercise quota every week, we fully support you. But in order for you to support yourself, you need to choose the right rowing machine. How do you do that, you might ask? Think about all of its features, of course! Price, resistance type, resistance levels, seat comfort…nothing should be overlooked if you want your perfect match.
This comprehensive guide will investigate the best rowing machines in Canada and outline the criteria you should consider while making your purchase decision. Let’s dive right into our top five products.
The Best Rowing Machines Right Now
Our Top Pick for The Best Rowing Machine
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine Review
What We Think of the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine boasts a lot of beneficial features. And who doesn’t love those? The extra-long slide rail on this one guarantees that it can be used by anyone who falls within the 250-pound weight limit, no matter how tall they are. If the length is an issue for your space, have no fear. You can fold up the rail to open up your floor again.
If you’ve ever used a rowing machine with a less-than-stellar seat, you’ll appreciate the ergonomic shape of this one. You won’t ever feel like you’re going to slide right off of it. The non-slip handlebars keep your grip comfy, too. It doesn’t neglect your feet, either. The pedals have straps and a grippy surface to keep your feet in place without any effort on your part.
There really aren’t any features that jump out at us and scream “red flag”. We aren’t thrilled that there’s no warranty coverage in Canada, but that’s standard for the company. The only issue we have with it really is the limitations of the monitor. It can’t track your stroke rate, and since that’s important to serious rowers, it might not be perfect for everybody. We’re disappointed about that too!
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine
Reviewers have a high opinion of the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine. Nobody had trouble putting it together, and the folding style helps them keep their spaces open and free of trip hazards. The resistance levels are effective for everybody, and their feet feel really secure with the straps and non-slip texture of the pedals.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine Specifications
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine Pros and Cons
Pros:
-
Long slide rail fits everyone’s height
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Non-slip footpads and straps keep your feet secure
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Folds for easier storage
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Ergonomic seat and non-slip handlebars give you security and comfort
Cons:
Our Final Thoughts on the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine
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Performance: 5/5
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Usability: 5/5
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Price: 4/5
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Quality: 5/5
All in all, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine is a well-rounded option that will make (just about) everybody happy. It has a couple of limitations, but it provides a great workout and is easy to put together.
Our Vertical Pick
Sunny Health & Fitness Upright Row-N-Ride Rowing Machine Review
What We Think of the Sunny Health & Fitness Upright Row-N-Ride Rowing Machine
The Sunny Health & Fitness Upright Row-N-Ride Rowing Machine is a really cool option. It’s so much more than a rowing machine. It can definitely help you train your upper body rowing muscles, but you can also use it for squats, deadlifts, and even incline chest presses. The handlebar and seat are both adjustable, so you can change their heights to make it as comfortable for you as possible.
One of the best things about it is how easily it folds — it only takes a few seconds, and you can easily hide it away and reclaim your floor space when you aren’t using it. The self-levelling pedals are another favourite feature — you won’t have any trouble getting on or off, even if you’ve got some joint pain or limited mobility.
We do have a handful of minor low points to talk about. If you’re looking for a traditional rowing motion, you can’t get that on this machine. It’s just not designed for it. Also, the resistance can only be adjusted with the addition of three elastic bands, each adding 22 pounds of resistance. The adjustability is pretty limited because of that. We’d also prefer that the pedals have straps. Just for security.
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Sunny Health & Fitness Upright Row-N-Ride Rowing Machine
Reviewers have so many good things to say about the Sunny Health & Fitness Upright Row-N-Ride Rowing Machine. Most people use it in its standard position for squatting and rowing, but the extras are still noteworthy. People think the seat is comfortable, and it folds well for storage. It didn’t take much effort to put together, either.
Sunny Health & Fitness Upright Row-N-Ride Rowing Machine Specifications
Sunny Health & Fitness Upright Row-N-Ride Rowing Machine Pros and Cons
Pros:
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Folds for easy storage
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Seat is 4-way adjustable and well-cushioned, handlebar is 2-way adjustable
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Self-leveling pedals make it easy to get on and off
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Trains squats, rows, deadlifts, and incline chest press
Cons:
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Doesn’t simulate the actual rowing experience
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Resistance levels are limited
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Pedals don’t have straps
Our Final Thoughts on the Sunny Health & Fitness Upright Row-N-Ride Rowing Machine
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Performance: 5/5
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Usability: 4.5/5
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Price: 5/5
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Quality: 4.5/5
All in all, the Sunny Health & Fitness Upright Row-N-Ride Rowing Machine is our favourite non-traditional rowing machine. It has a few flaws, but the overall effectiveness and versatility of the machine more than make up for the inconveniences.
Our Upgrade Pick
NordicTrack RW900 Rower Review
What We Think of the NordicTrack RW900 Rower
No matter what you’re looking to get out of a rowing machine, we can almost guarantee that the NordicTrack RW900 Rower will be able to give it to you. A reliable and adjustable magnetic resistance system? Yup. A sturdy and long-lasting design? Yeah, it’s got that. A 30-day iFIT trial? You bet it’s got that too.
The 22-inch screen jumps out at you right away, and it even tilts and pivots! You’ll be able to follow along with all kinds of iFIT workout videos whether they’re on the rowing machine or not. How awesome is that? During your workouts, the trainer can even adjust the resistance of your machine so you can just focus on keeping up and giving it your all.
With all the things going right with this one, you might be wondering what could be wrong. Well, there are only a couple of things, and they’re easy to look past. Number one? The price. It is high, and we bet there aren’t many people willing to spend this much on one piece of exercise equipment. It’s also very, very big, so you’ll need a ton of free floor space to give it a home.
What Reviewers Are Saying About the NordicTrack RW900 Rower
Reviewers are blown away by the quality of the NordicTrack RW900 Rower. Although it’s a bit of a pain to put together because of how heavy it is, it’s also the sturdiest rowing machine they’ve ever used. In other words, worth it. Most people pay for the iFIT membership to make the most of the machine. The pivoting screen is a massive hit, and people think it’s a great machine to grow with.
NordicTrack RW900 Rower Specifications
NordicTrack RW900 Rower Pros and Cons
Pros:
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Comes with a 30-day iFIT trial
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22” screen tilts and pivots to follow along with videos of other workout types
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Resistance level can be adjusted by your trainer during workout classes
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Incredibly sturdy and durable
Cons:
Our Final Thoughts on the NordicTrack RW900 Rower
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Performance: 5/5
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Usability: 5/5
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Price: 1/5
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Quality: 5/5
All in all, the NordicTrack RW900 Rower is a one-of-a-kind machine. It’s built to last (forever), has the largest and most mobile screen you’ll ever see, and will match your fitness level at every step of your journey. What more could you ask for?
Our Foldable Pick
ProForm Pro R10 Rower Review
What We Think of the ProForm Pro R10 Rower
There are a lot of things to like about the ProForm Pro R10 Rower. The screen size alone is something to admire. It’s a 10-inch touchscreen display, and it’s paired with some pretty awesome speakers that you can enjoy with the aux port. Pair those things with the included three-year iFIT membership, and you can say hello to awesome training videos and an enjoyable workout.
The good times don’t end there, either! The magnetic wheel is nearly silent, even when it’s making you work the hardest. You won’t have to worry about drowning out your music or disrupting the rest of your family. Since it folds up to half its size and moves around on front wheels, it’s the perfect rowing machine for small spaces.
There are only a couple of things we aren’t too fond of with this one. Most obviously? The price is high. We’re sure there are a lot of people who won’t want to spend that much on a rowing machine. Also, the seat is not our favourite. It’s pretty small, and not very ergonomic, so it won’t be a comfy fit for everybody.
What Reviewers Are Saying About the ProForm Pro R10 Rower
Reviewers are in love with the ProForm Pro R10 Rower. Their favourite thing about it is how easily it folds up and moves around a room, but there are tons of other things they like too. The large screen, the quiet magnetic wheel, and the iFIT membership are all things they enjoy. The only main problem is the seat—it’s pretty small, and some people don’t find it very comfortable.
ProForm Pro R10 Rower Specifications
ProForm Pro R10 Rower Pros and Cons
Pros:
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Nearly silent
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Folding design and front wheels make it perfect for small spaces
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10” HD touchscreen and high-quality speakers with aux port
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Comes with a 3-year iFIT membership—follow along with training videos and automatic resistance changes
Cons:
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Seat is very small
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Very expensive
Our Final Thoughts on the ProForm Pro R10 Rower
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Performance: 5/5
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Usability: 5/5
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Price: 2/5
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Quality: 5/5
Overall, the ProForm Pro R10 Rower is an outstanding choice no matter which way you look at it. Whether you’re motivated by video classes, a did-it-yourself playlist blasting from killer speakers, or an every-level resistance system, this one will make you happy.
Our Budget Pick
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine Review
What We Think of the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine has a lot of features working in its favour. Unlike other machines that work on a cable, the handlebars are attached to a bar to give you more stability while you row. Plus, the raised seat helps you get your legs working harder… perfect help for new rowers!
There are a bunch of other things we love. The pivoting foot pedals give you a full range of motion in your ankles to keep your form correct (and your joints happy), the display tracks all of the stats you need to track your progress, and you’ve got a device holder and ergonomic seat to keep you comfortable and motivated. If you like to follow workout videos, the SunnyFit app will be a big help.
For such a budget-friendly rowing machine, this option doesn’t come with a very long list of downsides. The hydraulic resistance will warm up as you exercise, and this will make it less effective—you’ll need to adjust the level as time goes by to make sure it’s still an effective workout! Also, if you’re taller than six feet, you won’t be able to get a full range of motion for a deep row.
What Reviewers Are Saying About the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine
Reviewers really like the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine. It’s incredibly easy to put together and people don’t have any trouble finding a place to put it. It’s stable, although not big enough for people over six-foot to get a full row. The resistance is also effective for people at different training levels.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine Specifications
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine Pros and Cons
Pros:
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Digital monitor tracks stroke rate, count, calories, and time
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Seat is higher than foot pedals for a better lower body workout, and handlebars are attached to a bar instead of cord for more stability
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Has a device holder, pivoting foot pedals, and ergonomic seat
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Sync to the SunnyFit app with Bluetooth for training videos and more
Cons:
-
Range of motion is limited for people over 6 ft tall
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As the piston warms up, the resistance decreases—will need to adjust multiple times over a workout session
Our Final Thoughts on the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine
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Performance: 4/5
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Usability: 4/5
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Price: 5/5
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Quality: 5/5
Overall, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 Rowing Machine is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to save some money or isn’t sure about their interest in rowing yet. It’s good for beginners or people further along on their fitness journey.
How to Properly Choose Your Rowing Machine
Price
Some rowing machines cost less than $200, others cost nearly $3,000. With this much variability in the price, the quality of the rowing machines also varies quite a bit. In general, more expensive machines will have higher-end, interactive displays, a more durable build, and a more effective resistance system.
Resistance Type
There are several options for resistance type when it comes to rowing machines. Hydraulic systems, magnetic systems, and air flywheels are the most common types. Unique machines even use elastic bands. Everyone has their own preference for resistance types, but in general, magnetic systems will be the quietest and hydraulic systems the least reliable.
Resistance Levels
Since regular use of a rowing machine will help you get stronger and fitter, it’s important that your rowing machine can grow with you. As a result, you’ll want to look for one that offers a range of resistant levels that can match your growth. Some machines only have three levels, others can have 25+. More levels mean more precision in your step-ups.
Folding Design
Many rowing machines out there can fold to keep your floor space open when you aren’t using them. This isn’t a guarantee, though, so if you’re tight on space or you need an open layout for other types of exercise, you’ll want to prioritize a folding design.
Disclaimer: The prices displayed are accurate at the time of publication. We’ll do our best to keep them as up-to-date as possible, but you may see slight changes. The products in this list are ranked by independent third parties. Rankings are based on both reviews and independent testing.
Children and youth with autism and intellectual disabilities are statistically the least likely to meet physical activity guidelines.
“It isn’t because of the individual,” said Connor Murphy, fourth-year kinesiology student in the Faculty of Health Sciences. “These kids are not any less capable than anyone else, it’s because of systemic barriers that they aren’t receiving the benefits of exercise.”
Youth with disabilities often face higher barriers to entry, whether that be higher costs or an inaccessible environment. Murphy is helping to break down these very roadblocks.
In September 2025, Murphy began a practicum with GoodLife Kids Foundation, a charitable organization founded in 1998 that supports children and youth with autism and intellectual disabilities through physical activity and fitness.
The foundation’s MOVE program offers free virtual and in-person classes across Canada.
“MOVE Coaches are certified fitness professionals who receive specialized training, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to lead inclusive, engaging and impactful classes for participants,” said Kyla Crocker, director of the MOVE program.
Classes are made up of warm-up movements, exercise circuits, games, dance breaks and cool-down mindfulness activities.
But before Murphy started his placement, there was no formal exercise circuit programming tool included.
“Coaches would have to pick their own exercise moves throughout the class, which became quite repetitive.”
He set out to create the first Exercise Resource Circuit Guide, a tool that supports coaches with programming specifically tailored for youth with autism and intellectual disabilities. The guide introduces a series of science-backed movements to better support participants. Diving into research, and using the training principles learned throughout his bachelor of science in kinesiology, Murphy created a guide that would specifically support youth participants and their needs.
“I did a lot of research on what would work for this population. Stability, balance, and jumping exercises have very profound motor benefits for youth with disabilities. Ball sports can also play a big role in improving executive function.”
Experiential learning drives impact
Using research to build unique plans that would help youth benefit not only physically, but cognitively, was important for Murphy.
“Now, coaches can use an evidence-based tool to support them in planning their classes. These circuits are built with variety and promote better participation,” he said.
Debuting this year within the MOVE program, the Exercise Circuit Guide will have an impact beyond Murphy’s placement – a resource that Crocker recognizes as a legacy tool.
“Connor should be really proud of the impact he’s leaving behind. It speaks to the contribution Western students have continuously made during their time with us.” – Kyla Crocker, director of GoodLife Kids Foundation MOVE program
As the third student from Western to complete a placement with the foundation, Crocker can attest to the power of hands-on, integrative learning opportunities like these.
“We strive to embody a quote from Ben Franklin, ‘Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn,’” she said.
Experiential learning is built into the Faculty of Health Sciences student experience, from opportunities in practicums and internships, to active labs and and community-engaged learning. With over 150 employer partners including the GoodLife Kids Foundation, and over 650 undergraduate students placed since 2023, students receive a deep understanding of their field before embarking on their careers.
And Murphy himself cites the power of involvement. Having participated in MOVE classes to support coaches, interact with youth and test his own circuit guide before the program-wide launch, he said it’s an experience he will never forget.
“They call it the MOVE magic – there’s honestly nothing else like it. The first time I saw the smiles on these kids’ faces and the way they were interacting with the coaches was just incredible.”
Power of movement fosters inclusion
After his time spent in MOVE classes, seeing the impact his resources could have, Murphy’s view on health care shifted.
“It opened my eyes to the disparities not just in sport, but all physical activity. I know this placement is going to impact how I deliver my care as a future clinical professional, to be more inclusive and focused on marginalized populations,” he said.
Gaining a deeper understanding of the power of movement through community building is something Crocker hopes all practicum students will take away from the purpose-driven organization, no matter the health–care profession they choose.
“Knowing that my work is going to have a lasting impact, and serve as a foundation for future programs, is a really good feeling,” Murphy said. “I have a lot of pride in the work I put in.”
Murphy’s Exercise Circuit Guide will be available to all MOVE coaches in 2026, with some classes implementing the guide as early as this month. On April 13, the foundation will be launching the MOVE Program in five more GoodLife Fitness locations across Canada, including London, Ont.’s very first in-person MOVE class. Registration is open now for youth ages 12 to 21.
Learn more about how Western is preparing future leaders and global citizens.
Are you guilty of making these mistakes before exercising? (Image: Getty)
A top fitness guru has revealed the three nutrition ‘fails’ people make before exercising. Sport and exercise expert, Dr. Amos Ogunkoya GP spoke out after a poll of 2,000 adults who exercise at least twice-a-week, revealed coffee, biscuits and even chocolate are on the list of things many consume before the gym as it gives them a ‘sugar boost’.
But Dr Ogunkoya admitted it’s all about timing, as all of the above can seriously affect a person’s ability to workout efficiently and may even impact overall performance and development.
He said: “For anyone trying to keep fit there is so much food related information out there it’s hard to know exactly how to structure your exercise routine. You do not need anything complicated, but many people rely on guesswork when it comes to fuelling exercise.
“In clinic and in sport, I commonly see three key pitfalls. These are training under-fuelled, relying on quick sugar fixes, and mistiming nutrition, all of which can impact performance.”
The research was commissioned by Flora as part of its partnership with the TCS London Marathon, which is going on a food tour offering free flapjacks and recipe inspiration across the UK.
It showed four in 10 admit they have no idea if what they’re eating is actually helping them exercise.
Read more: London Marathon ‘set for major change’ as plans leaked weeks before event
Read more: ‘I’m a cardiologist – here are the six things I never do after 6pm’
Pasta, energy drinks like Red Bull or Monster and sweets featured on the list of things people will snack on before they exercise.
Gen Z exercisers aged 18 to 29 are nearly three times more likely to reach for these sugary drinks than the average (13% versus five%).
When it comes to selecting a snack prior to physical activity, other than hydration, most look for a quick energy boost, convenience or something that’s easy to digest.
However, 27% of those polled via OnePoll.com often exercise on an empty stomach, while 46% are also likely to skip breakfast if they’re in a rush.
As such, 20% of respondents often experience energy crashes when they are unable to correctly fuel their body and a further 37% admitted this ‘sometimes’ happens. Aside from exercise, when it comes to their everyday life 20% said they often feel like they’re ‘running on empty’.
Following a workout the top three foods people will eat are fruit (26%), proteins such as eggs (19%) and whole foods (15%).
Most (76%) reckon they’ll nourish themselves enough after exercise but if they didn’t, it was due to lack of time, no appetite or being too tired.
Flora’s food tour aims to show how simple, nutritionally balanced choices – including plant-based options – can support energy, performance and recovery.
It will kick off in Birmingham on Thursday 16 April and travel across the UK, before finishing in London for the TCS London Marathon.
Dr. Amos added: “Caffeine can improve performance, but timing matters. Ideally this should be taken 40 to 60 minutes before exercise, rather than immediately before starting.
“Energy drinks and sugary snacks might give a short-term boost, but they are often followed by a dip in energy. For most people, simple carbohydrates and good hydration are far more effective.
“Some people prefer training fasted, and that can work depending on the session, but for higher intensity exercise, being under fuelled will usually limit performance.
“Most people are trying to do the right thing, but small adjustments to how you fuel before exercise can make a meaningful difference to both energy levels and overall results.”
TOP 25 FOOD AND DRINK PEOPLE CONSUME BEFORE EXERCISE:
- Water
- Piece of fruit or vegetable
- Coffee
- Porridge
- Yogurt
- Toast
- Eggs
- Protein bar
- Protein drink/shake
- Fruit smoothie
- Biscuits
- Sports drink (e.g. Lucozade)
- Chocolate
- Pasta
- Energy drink (e.g. Redbull or Monster)
- Cheese
- Sweets
- Hydration gel sachet/electrolytes
- Pre workout
- A plant-based meal
- Rice cakes
- Cold meat
- Pizza
- Creatine
- A roast dinner
IN THE NICHE sport of competitive gripping (yes, you read that right), few feats are as impressive as the double-plate pinch hold with two old-school York Barbell 45-pound plates.
Plate pinching sounds simple: Set a pair of two-inch-thick plates on their edges (smooth sides out), pinch them between your thumb and fingers, lift them to waist height, and hold. But in practice? The plates’ surfaces challenge even the fittest guys. It’s a challenge you should try (but start with modern five-pounders): A large study suggests a link between weaker grip and higher risk of cardiovascular disease and early death. Plus, a weak grip is an invitation for injury.
A strong grasp can also help you lift more and rack up gym PRs. “Often it’s your hands that limit you when you lift,” says Jedd Johnson, a five-time North American Grip Sport champ.
How to Train to Build Grip Strength
Want to hone a viselike grip? Here are four ways to do it within your typical workout schedule.
Squeeze the Bar Hard
Whenever you pick up a weight, squeeze the bar as tightly as you can. Actually, “crush the bar to a pulp,” says Pavel Tsatsouline, CEO of StrongFirst. Amp it up by squeezing your nonworking hand on single-arm moves like dumbbell rows.
Use a Thicker Handle
Find extra-thick barbells, dumbbells, or handles for all your deadlifts and pulling exercises. Don’t have a fat bar? Find a towel and wrap it around a standard bar to make it more difficult to grasp. The larger bars—which are roughly twice the thickness of a standard bar—force you to squeeze harder to get a secure grip, so relatively light weights feel heavier, Johnson says.
Hang for More Strength
For manlier mitts, strength coach Dan John recommends adding this simple challenge into your workout once a week: Do a pullup and then hang on the bar for 30 seconds. Without letting goof the bar, repeat until your grip fails or you can’t complete a pull-up. Ten reps translates into five-plus minutes on the bar—and proof that you have a badass grip.
Use Different Methods to Challenge Your Grip
Your brain’s motor cortex puts to work more than 30 muscles just to control your hand. To strengthen all that sinew, think outside the barbell. “Towels hanging from the bar, thick ropes, and PVC pipes all place a different demand on your grip,”says former MH fitness advisor David Jack. Each week, do at least three sets of towel pullups or chinups, PVC drags or carries, or pulling exercise variations with ropes.
The Muscles You Need for Grip Strength
Forearm Extensors
The muscles on the back of your forearm work together in order to open your fingers and extend your wrist backward.
- How to Train Them: Spread and open your hands as wide as you can while bending your wrists back. Hold for 30 seconds. Rest; then repeat.
Forearm Flexors
The muscles on the pinky side of your lower arm help grab and grip: key actions in nearly all sports.
- How to Train Them: Do wrist curls or any of the challenging moves below.
Thenar Muscles
These help your thumb pinch toward your fingers, and they don’t get much love in most gym workouts.
- How to Train Them: Plate pinches. Start with two five-pounders, smooth sides out. Work up to a 60-second hold.
Pinch Perfect
The smooth-sides-out plate pinch is a gold standard of grip strength, but it’s not the only way.
- Training Tip: Struggling? Turn the smooth sides of the plates inside and hold; you’ll still train your thenar muscles, but it’s slightly easier.
Which Grips to Use for Strength Training Exercises
Deadlift
Use a mixed grip to handle heavy loads.
On lighter sets, use a conventional double-overhand grip. But on your heaviest sets, use a mixed grip—one palm facing you and the other facing away. This keeps the barbell more secure throughout the move. Each set, switch it up (so the hand facing you now faces away) to avoid repeatedly twisting your back in one direction.
Bench Press
Wrap your thumb; skip the monkey grip.
While the monkey grip (fingers and thumb on the same side of the bar) is sometimes advised for shoulder comfort, it makes you more liable to drop the bar. Always wrap your thumb around the bar and focus on the distance between your hands. Keep your forearms perpendicular to the floor when the bar touches your chest.
Olympic Lifts
The hook grip may not be the best here.
Stick to a standard double-overhand grip, with your thumb outside your fingers, wrapping your fingers tightly. Elite powerlifters may tell you to use the hook grip (wrapping your fingers around both your thumb and the bar) on snatches and power cleans. If you’re not a powerlifting beast, you might want to reconsider.
Power Clean
Put your hands just outside your hips.
This one is all about hand placement. To determine your optimum hand position, hold the bar in front of your thighs, extend your thumbs so they point toward each other, and shift your hands so your thumbs just touch the sides of your legs. This will enable your knuckles to rest outside your shoulders when the bar is at your chest.
Front Squat
Can’t grab the bar? Use your wraps.
You want the bar across the front of your shoulders, using an overhand grip. If that causes shoulder, elbow, or wrist pain, just tie wrist straps or ropes to the bar, grab the ends, and then lift your elbows high beneath the bar. This will allow you to grip the bar even if you have mobility limitations.
Running
Keep your hands loose and relaxed.
You may not bethinking about your grip when you go for a run, but you should be, says ultramarathoner Adam Chase, author of The Ultimate Guide to Trail Running. Avoid clenching your fists when you run, and focus on keeping your hands relaxed and loose, minimizing forearm strain and conserving energy.
3 Exercises to Build Grip Strength
Kettlebell Crush
How to Do It:
- Squeeze a kettlebell by its sides as if you’re trying to deflate a basketball.
- Hinge forward and do rows, pulling the weight to your chest, then lowering back slowly to the start. Maintain your grip tension throughout the movement.
Sets and reps: Do 3 sets of 10 to 12 reps.
Towel Grip Pullups
How to Do It:
- Drape a towel over a bar.
- Do chinups or pullups, one hand grasping the towel, the other the bar.
- Switch hands each set.
Sets and reps: Do 4 sets of 4 to 6 reps.
Bottoms Up Pressing
How to Do It:
Sets and reps: Do 3 sets of 10 to 12.
Andrew Heffernan, CSCS is a health, fitness, and Feldenkrais coach, and an award-winning health and fitness writer. His writing has been featured in Men’s Health, Experience Life, Onnit.com, and Openfit, among other outlets. An omnivorous athlete, Andrew is black belt in karate, a devoted weight lifter, and a frequent high finisher in triathlon and Spartan races. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife and their two children.
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Milwaukee, WI1 week agoPotawatomi Casino Hotel evacuated after fire breaks out in rooftop HVAC system
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Austin, TX7 days agoABC Kite Fest Returns to Austin for Annual Celebration – Austin Today
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Ohio9 hours ago‘Little Rascals’ star Bug Hall arrested in Ohio
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World1 week agoZelenskyy warns US-Iran war could divert critical aid from Ukraine