grip

Gripping or holding objects with the hand or other body parts is commonly referred to as grip. As a noun and verb, the term encompasses the act of contacting an object, the pressure and friction at the skin-object interface, and the neural control that coordinates finger and thumb movements. Grip is influenced by hand size, skin condition, moisture, grip texture, and the object's shape and weight, all of which affect stability and control.

Two broad grip styles are commonly distinguished: the power grip and the precision grip. The power grip wraps the fingers and thumb around an object to exert force, as with a hammer handle. The precision grip uses the fingertips and thumb for fine control, as when handling a small screw. A pinch grip and a hook grip describe variations used for delicate tasks or carrying objects without squeezing.

Grip design and ergonomics focus on maximizing control while minimizing fatigue and injury. Textured surfaces, knurling, contours, and moisture management improve friction and comfort. Materials range from rubber and polymer coatings to fabric wraps and gloves. Proper grip design considers hand size diversity, tool weight, and task duration, aiming to maintain a secure hold under varied conditions, including wet, sweaty, or oily environments.

Grip strength is a common measure of hand function, evaluated with a dynamometer and used in clinical assessment, sports training, and occupational rehabilitation. Training programs may include grip-strengtheners, resistance exercises, and technique refinement to improve performance or recovery after injury. Grips influence performance across many activities, from sports such as rock climbing and tennis to daily tasks requiring reliable manual control.