CA2266754A1 - Ergonomic handgrip - Google Patents

Abstract

An ergonomic handgrip for use as a fitness grip and also for use with a wide variety of devices and equipment such as ski poles and bicycle handlebars by being incorporated into the handle portion thereof. In a basic illustrated form, the grip has an elongated base with a central axis and opposed ends, the upper of which ends includes a thumb support. The front face is sculptured or contoured for finger reception, so that, when gripped, the thumb is supported in a bent position and the hand and wrist are in a neutral position. In such neutral position the hand is not cocked or hyperextended, but rather the hand is generally aligned with the forearm. Further, the end of the base opposite the thumb support, i.e., the lower end, is reduced in size to allow disproportionately more contraction of the lowermost two fingers, and primarily the lowermost or little finger. When the grip is used as a standalone handgrip or when another element does not pass through the lower end thereof, the lower end includes a thickened inverted arcuate section having a central bore, the arcuate section being spaced in from the edges of the lower end. A preferred version includes an elongated recess within the base on the side directed toward the palm of the hand. The grip can also be employed by being incorporated into the handle or shaft of a hammer or mallet.