Introduction to one of KinX Learning's new eBooks on the kinesiology of exercise - The Fingers and Hand.
The fingers and hand make up a very complex anatomical structure. For example, the hand includes 24 bones and over 20 joints. To perform all of the actions at these various joints requires the use of 33 different muscles. The strongest muscles that affect the hand are located in the forearm. These muscles have long tendons that cross the wrist joint and attach onto the fingers or hand.
It is interesting to note that these tendons are held together in a very small space at the wrist by a flat band of ligamentous tissue. This is the ligament that is usually cut when a carpal tunnel syndrome operation is done. In addition, there are several small muscles in the hand itself.
Because of the complexity of all of the muscles and actions in the fingers, only some of the major actions that are important in sports and bodybuilding will be described. For example, the finger flexor and extensor muscles will be emphasized as they should be strong enough to handle increased amounts of resistance as for example, to hold a heavily weighted barbell or dumbbell.
They must also be sufficiently strong to withstand repetitive motion type tasks. With sufficient strength and muscular endurance, many finger and wrist problems can be prevented. The fingers and hand will be able to withstand the stress that they are exposed to.