#1: Putty Grip and Squeeze. I like using the putty versus a ball because you can squeeze all the way through to your palm. ... #2: Thumb Pinch Strengthening. So many hand strengthening exercises forget the thumb. ... #3: Isometric Hooks (Claw) ... #4: Rubber Band Abduction. ... #5: Rubber Band 'C' with Fingers and Thumb.