I have used the standard squeeze only grip strengtheners for years. This is far superior. I can get my entire forearm burning. I consider myself an average athletic male and the red ball isn't hard to squeeze. The finger loops are tight as many have mentioned but I don't think it could work if they weren't. If you are getting good extension, the loops stretch open and allow for circulation. If you sat there just squeezing the ball I'm sure it would cut off circulation. My only gripe is that the ball is a little small. I can't get my pinky and thumb involved in flexion very much. And I have to drive my fingers into the ball instead of just squeezing it. But it definitely works and I will keep using it.

Love the concept. However, as others warned, the band loops around the fingers are too tight and they turn my finger tips blue.

Noticed immediate effect at relieving stiffness and in building up strength and flexibility. Very easy to use, I hope it takes care of my carpal tunnel symptoms to the point that I won't have to have surgery. Will use while watching TV, at desk, etc. Other reviews indicate that it's not the most durable product so may have to be replaced after several months.

I had been suffering with tennis elbow for almost a year and had 2 cortisone shots. When I got no relief from the 2nd one, my physician said I should go for acupuncture, which helped a lot, but my acupuncturist said that my hand was very weak and I needed to strengthen it, so I went online to get hand strengthening exercises and came across the Handmaster Plus. I have been using it for a few weeks now and I can really tell that my hand, fingers and arm area are much stronger. I can lift my Brita water pitcher without fear of dropping it or pain now. The finger pieces come out occasionally when I 'm using it, but I just put them right back in- it's no big deal.