Purpose of hand/finger strength

[emerica1184]

What is the purpose of developing hand/finger strength in karate? It isn't like grappling where you are holding people the whole time so does it help with punches?

[Wastelander]

What is the purpose of developing hand/finger strength in karate? It isn't like grappling where you are holding people the whole time so does it help with punches?

First of all, you most certainly are grappling with people quite often in karate--what else do you think you are pulling your hand back to your hip for, and what exactly do you think your other hand is doing when one of them is striking or blocking with your knife hand, for example? In addition, strong muscles, ligaments and tendons in the hands will help prevent injuries while striking because those are the things holding your bones in place when you punch.

[emerica1184]

What is the purpose of developing hand/finger strength in karate? It isn't like grappling where you are holding people the whole time so does it help with punches?

First of all, you most certainly are grappling with people quite often in karate--what else do you think you are pulling your hand back to your hip for, and what exactly do you think your other hand is doing when one of them is striking or blocking with your knife hand, for example? In addition, strong muscles, ligaments and tendons in the hands will help prevent injuries while striking because those are the things holding your bones in place when you punch.

I must of overlooked all that hah thanks for the help!

[Montana]

We do a lot of "block and grab" techniques where you would block an attack and grab the leg, arm, etc nd execute your counter technique. Strong fingers and hands are essential for this.

[whess]

An open hand strike like a nukite can be much more lethal than a punch, but can only be effective if your hand and fingers have been strengthened for it.

[ShoriKid]

What is the purpose of developing hand/finger strength in karate? It isn't like grappling where you are holding people the whole time so does it help with punches?

First of all, you most certainly are grappling with people quite often in karate--what else do you think you are pulling your hand back to your hip for, and what exactly do you think your other hand is doing when one of them is striking or blocking with your knife hand, for example? In addition, strong muscles, ligaments and tendons in the hands will help prevent injuries while striking because those are the things holding your bones in place when you punch.

THis, this many times over. Karate traditionally practiced will involve a lot of gripping for control, joint/limb manipulation. Strong grips through finger and hand conditioning is absolutely vital for this.

[pittbullJudoka]

I concour with Shorikid. When you start looking into the bunkai of your kata you will find grip strength will be a must. There's alot of grabs from joint manipulation and throws in your traditional stand up kata.

[KumitePanda]

An open hand strike like a nukite can be much more lethal than a punch, but can only be effective if your hand and fingers have been strengthened for it.

yes i agree here, get someone to hold a focus pad to their chest and do a few punches and a few nukite...see which they feel more....people often feel my nukite more

[Kuma]

All good points. Don't forget also: strong hands, fingers, and wrists mean your strikes will also be strong because then your weapons (fist, knife hand, spear hand, etc.) will all be strong.