This simple move strengthens the front and back of the forearm and increases your finger-grip strength. It looks easier than it is, so start with a small ball filled with air, then gradually progress to holding a 3-pound medicine ball.

1 Grasp a palm-sized ball in your left hand. Sitting in a chair or on a sturdy bench, plant your feet directly below your knees, lean forward and rest your left upper forearm on your left thigh. Spread your fingers around the ball and, while firmly gripping the ball, raise your fingertips and the ball upward as high as you can without moving your left elbow. Pause with your wrist flexed in this position for two seconds.

2 Continue to squeeze the ball with your fingers as you slowly move the ball down toward your upper shin bone. Be sure to keep your elbow stationary and don't drop the ball. Concentrate on feeling a stretch in the top of your forearm and wrist area. Pause for three seconds. Repeat the exercise 12 to 16 times. Then switch the ball to your right hand and repeat on the other side.

This article originally appeared in the Los Angeles Times in the "Good Form" feature of the Health Section. "Good Form" is updated with a new Karen Voight article each Monday.