Table of Contents
IMTUG
IMTUG, IronMind's Two-Finger Utility Gripper, is a compact torsion-spring gripper for working individual fingers, finger pairs and the thumb. It complements full-hand Captains of Crush training.[1]
Design and levels
IMTUG uses IronMind's GR8 steel springs and short handles with rounded ends, described by the manufacturer as “hemi-end” handles. It is made in the USA. The seven models run from IMTUG1, the easiest, to IMTUG7, the hardest. These numbers identify levels in this range, not poundages or Captains of Crush equivalents.[1]
How it differs from a full-size gripper
The shorter handles permit targeted finger work. IronMind recommends using different strengths for thumb, ring-and-little-finger, and index-and-middle-finger exercises. Its instructions specifically recommend training the ring and little fingers together rather than isolating the little finger.[2]
The rounded handle end also enables IronMind's brush technique: an additional finger lightly assists at the end of the handle to finish a close. The user can then hold the closed position or control the reopening.[1][2]
Original instructions
The IMTUG booklet, carrying a 2015 copyright, preserves illustrated hand positions, a model-selection chart and maintenance advice. It cautions against resting the spring against the hand and explains that IMTUG should not be held like a conventional full-hand gripper.[2]
References
- IronMind, IMTUG: Two-Finger Utility Grippers, design and seven-model lineup. ↩
- IronMind, IMTUG instruction booklet, ©2015, illustrated use, model selection and brush technique. ↩