41 – Palm press and finger strength (Gasshō / Yubi chikara undō)

Name

Gasshō / Yubi chikara undō (合掌・指力運動)
Palm press and finger strength

Romaji instruction

Hai, naore.
Return.

Hidari sanchin no yoi.
Left sanchin.

Kamaete.
Prepare.

Chikara gasshō.
Press.

Ichi, ni, san, shi, go, roku, shichi, hachi, kyū, jū.

Yubi dashite.
Extend the fingers.

Chikara irete.
Tense.

Ichi, ni, san, shi, go, roku, shichi, hachi.

Te futte.
Shake the hands.

Te kosuri awasete.
Rub the hands together.

Ichi, ni, san, shi, go, roku, shichi, hachi, kyū, jū.

Hantai.
Opposite direction.

Ichi, ni, san, shi, go, roku, shichi, hachi, kyū, jū.

Te futte.
Shake the hands.

Naore.
Return.

Counting

Ichi, ni, san, shi, go, roku, shichi, hachi, kyū, jū
(Some movements are performed to eight)

Description

The starting position is hidari sanchin no yoi.

The exercise is performed in several stages:

1. gasshō (palm press)
   the palms press against each other with constant pressure

2. yubi chikara (finger strength)
   the fingers extend and press actively against each other

3. relaxation
   the hands are shaken to release tension

4. friction movement
   the palms and fingers are rubbed together in a controlled movement

The movement is performed in both directions and ends with relaxation.

Purpose

• strengthen the fingers and palms
• develop grip and finger control
• improve circulation in the hands
• prepare for hand techniques

Technical key points

• maintain constant pressure in gasshō
• use active tension in the fingers
• clearly alternate tension and relaxation
• maintain a stable sanchin base
• avoid excessive tension
• work within your own capacity

Comment

The exercise connects hand strength to the body's center and prepares for technical use of the hands.