Has anyone tried the Gripmaster/Varigrip?

Evil Undead · #1 03-14-2010, 07:22 AM

Apparently it's supposed to be great for improving finger strength and dexterity... thought I'd ask for opinions

Here's an example

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/PLANET-WAVES-V...item518fd57c7f

PatO · #2 03-14-2010, 07:32 AM

I have one, I used to use it all the time while wasting away hours and hours in the van.... then it got old and the strings weren't as good so it got to be uncomfortable.

Chupacabra · #3 03-14-2010, 07:43 AM

You don't need finger strength, you need dexterity. There were a couple of topics on this not too long ago, with some links to videos & what not.

Read
The gripmaster

&
Weak Pinky....Is it normal?

Hope that saves you a few pennies

fearceol · #4 03-14-2010, 11:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chupacabra

You don't need finger strength, you need dexterity. There were a couple of topics on this not too long ago, with some links to videos & what not

+1.

As mentioned above this has been covered a few times. Try a search.

Basically the strength and dexterity needed to play the bass is the opposite of that needed to grip. If you try fretting a string without your thumb on the back of the fretboard, you will see just how little strength is required. What needs to be developed is strength in the opening of the hands.

Bottom line : These Varigrips are just gadgets, and while they probably have their uses, bass playing is not one of them.

Evil Undead · #5 03-14-2010, 04:32 PM

Thanks guys

I think I'll save my pennies and avoid the gadgety thing

I'm gonna have to find out how to be more dextrous I think... not even sure what that means let alone how to do it hehe!

kesslari · #6 03-14-2010, 04:40 PM

The fastest way to get there is also the most straightforward - play and practice bass.
I saw your other post on speed - the irony is that the best way to develop speed is to practice slowly. Your fingers need to learn the right way to move, accurately. Speed (dexterity) is a byproduct of unconscious accuracy. Learning to wiggle your fingers really really fast won't help your playing (or help you to gain speed) as much as practicing slowly will.
Really.

Evil Undead · #7 03-14-2010, 05:05 PM

Thanks kesslari

I'll keep practicing and hoping I'll get there one day!

fearceol · #8 03-15-2010, 06:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Evil Undead

Thanks kesslari

I'll keep practicing and hoping I'll get there one day!

There is a lot of helpful information here :

Your hands and their relationship to playing