This grip machine hack is simple but gives my forearms a crazy pump real quick!
And the best part is that I only need 4 pieces of equipment that I already own to make it happen.
I’ll show you a plate loaded version (often called Bruce Lee grip machine) and a dumbbell version.
Let’s dig right in!
Equipment Needed
Table of Contents
Plate Loaded Grip Machine
First thing you’ll need to do is set up a barbell on J-cups.
Make sure the J-cups sit low enough so that the barbell hangs below your waist.
The barbell is there to support my thumbs (I’ll show you how this works in a minute).
Next two pieces of equipment you’ll need are a loading pin and a weight plate(s).
And the last piece I use is a cable attachment.
I’m using the Major Fitness multifunctional handle bar but it can be any lat pulldown bar or any straight bar that can be connected to a cable.
Setting Up The Plate Loaded Grip Machine
First step is to slide the weight plate on the loading pin.
Then I connect the straight bar to the loading pin with a carabiner.
And now it’s time to use it.
Using The Grip Machine Hack
Now I get into position to start the exercise.
I pick up the weight then rest my thumbs on top of the barbell.
Open your hands to make sure the plate doesn’t touch the floor (adjust as needed).
Then pull the weight up towards the barbell with the rest of your fingers and repeat.
This is exactly what a grip machine does and most garage gyms already have this pieces of equipment to make this happen.
Next, I’ll show you how to recreate grip machine using dumbbells.
Grip Machine Hack With Dumbbells
For this version of the grip machine you’ll need one dumbbell and a UClip.
If you haven’t heard of UClips before, they’re a product that helps me to repurpose weight.
For this set up the UClip hold my Snode adjustable dumbbell by the handle.
Then I connect the Uclip to my lat pulldown bar with a carabiner and I’m ready to go.
Just like with the plate loaded version, I pick up the weight and rest my thumbs on the barbell.
Then open and close my fist to give my forearms a sick workout!
Thats all there’s to it, easy right?
Plate Loaded Grip Machines
Here’s what an actual plate loaded grip machine looks like.
It has a top bar (barbell), bottom bar (lat pulldown attachment), and loading bar for weight plates.
This one also uses bands which you could hack by stepping on bands and wrapping them around the lat pulldown bar.
Looks similar to what we hacked right?
Want More Gym Hacks?
Now it’s your turn to try this simple home gym hack.
If you have any hack requests or other garage gym ideas just leave me a comment below and I’ll brainstorm.
To learn more ways to hack your home gym, check out my other home gym hacks.
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