[TheForge] Hammer arm exercises (was: New student)

Tue Jul 22 09:05:01 2003

In the past I had had "carpenter's elbow" (I believe from poor hammer form,
i.e. not using entire arm).  Also, when I put in a long day demonstrating at
the Farm Museum, making key rings, leafs 1/4" hooks etc (light work but LOTS
of repetitions), by the end of the day I would start to get cramping in the
muscles just below the elbow.

I have found that the rubber band exercise,  spreading the fingers wide
against resistance really helped.  Also, I have started a regime of  light
weight lifting and I think that is helping also.  To help with my hammer and
tong muscles, I am doing  curls and triceps extensions and wrist curls and
reverse wrist curls.  IMPORTANT: most muscles work in opposing pairs (biceps
vs. triceps, etc) and you need to exercise both halves of the pair.  I do
high repetition/low weight  3 times a week.

Finally, I have pretty much switched over to the Hofi style of hammer
control. This has allowed me to work much longer with less fatigue.

I really think all of the above has helped me, but that is a subjective
assessment.  I can't say which activity has helped the most.

Regards,
Albin Drzewianowski
Westminster, MD
----- Original Message -----
From: "Bruce Freeman" <[email protected]>
To: <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 21, 2003 8:25 AM
Subject: [TheForge] Hammer arm exercises (was: New student)

> Frosty,
>
> "... as an athelete plans on "working out" to strengthen her hammer
> arm. We've already discussed safe ways to do this and what to watch for
> to avoid injuries, first aid treatments, etc..."
>
> If you guys come up with any good exercises for the hammer arm, let us
> know.  I just don't get enough time at the forge to exercise it much
> that way.  Besides, what with the tendonitis some people suffer, it
> might be a good idea to build strength with a non-impact activity.
>
> I've had a little problem with pain in the forearm.  Hurts a little to
> use a hammer.  But I think the culpret is probably the mouse.  Like
> Dilbert, I'm still pumped from using the mouse!
>
> Bruce
> NJ
>
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