How to Measure Hand Size for Basketball in 3 Quick and Easy Steps!
Have you ever watched a basketball game and, out of nowhere, thought about how big the dudes on the court are?
I mean, just think about it… The world’s biggest collection of 7-footers all fighting to put an orange ball into a cylinder.
You see guys like Shaq holding a basketball, and it looks like he’s holding a peach. It makes you think about how big that guy’s hands are, right?
Then you think, Woah, how big are MY hands?
And then you come to your old pal, Delly, to give you the down low on how to measure hand size.
Happy to have ya!
Measuring your hand size is as easy as grabbing a ruler, measuring your hand length and width, and recording your measurements.
Read on to see if you stack up against some of the biggest players in the NBA!
What is Hand Size?
Hand size refers to the physical dimensions of an individual’s hand, including its length, width, and overall proportions.
Hand size is measured by determining the distance from the base of the palm to the tip of the middle finger (hand length) and the circumference of the hand at its widest point (hand width).
These measurements can vary significantly among individuals and can have an impact on various activities that require manual dexterity, such as sports, playing musical instruments, or performing certain tasks.
No, bigger hand size does not make it easier to spin a basketball on your finger, but it does come with some advantages.
Reasons You Need to Know How to Measure Hand Size for Basketball
Hand size plays a crucial role in basketball, affecting various aspects of your game, from shooting and dribbling to passing and ball handling (just look at Shaq’s free throws).
The size of your hand determines how well you can grip the ball and is especially helpful for those who need to palm a basketball.
A proper understanding of your hand size allows you to choose the right basketball, position your fingers correctly, and develop techniques that leverage your unique attributes.
Step-by-Step Instructions for How to Measure Hand Size
To measure your hand size accurately, follow these simple steps:
1. Measure Hand Length
Place a ruler against a flat surface and press the palm of your dominant hand against it, extending your fingers as far apart as possible.
Measure the distance from the base of your palm to the tip of your middle finger.
2. Measure Hand Width
Extend your hand fully and wrap a measuring tape around the widest part, which is usually across the knuckles. Note down the circumference.
3. Record Your Measurements
Write down both your hand length and hand width measurements for future reference.
Easy, right?
Understanding Your Hand Size
Once you have your hand measurements, it’s essential to understand how they relate to your basketball skills. Hand size alone does not determine your success as a basketball player.
If it did, hand enhancements would be at an all-time high!
1. Small Hand Size
If your hand measurements are relatively small, you may face challenges in gripping the ball firmly.
However, small-handed players often excel in quick ball-handling, agility, and a faster release on shooting.
2. Medium Hand Size
Players with medium-sized hands have a versatile advantage, as they can adapt well to various aspects of the game.
With adequate practice, they can develop efficient dribbling skills, shooting accuracy, and passing skills.
3. Large Hand Size
Those with larger hands possess a natural advantage in gripping the basketball, making it easier to control and manipulate.
They tend to excel in rebounding, shot-blocking, and executing intricate moves such as spin dribbles or palm-to-palm passes. So you better go grab a pair of the best basketball shoes for centers!
Key Considerations for Successfully Measuring Your Hand Length
1. Use a Flat Surface
Find a flat surface, such as a table or countertop, to place your hand against. This ensures that your hand remains straight and aligned during the measurement process.
2. Extend Your Fingers
To get an accurate measurement, extend your fingers as far apart as possible. Straighten them fully, without exerting unnecessary force, to achieve the most accurate hand length measurement.
3. Align the Ruler Correctly
Place a ruler against the flat surface, ensuring that it’s positioned vertically and in line with the base of your palm. The ruler should run parallel to your arm, not at an angle.
4. Repeat for Accuracy
For reliability, it’s recommended to measure your hand length multiple times and take an average of the results. This helps minimize any potential errors or inconsistencies.
Taking it to the Next Level: How to Strengthen Your Hands
Regularly engage in hand-strengthening exercises, such as grip strengtheners, wrist curls, and fingertip push-ups, to enhance your grip and control.
Simply lifting weights can benefit grip strength. The more weight you lift, the stronger your grip needs to be.
There are also grips you can put around the set of dumbells you’re using to make holding onto them more difficult.
Alternative Methods to Measure Your Hand Size
One alternative method is to measure the grip diameter of your hand. This involves using a caliper or similar tool to measure the distance between your thumb and index finger when gripping an object.
The grip diameter can provide valuable information about hand size and is often used to calculate grip size for certain activities.
Hand span refers to the distance from the tip of the thumb to the tip of the little finger with your hand outstretched.
It is commonly used to assess the reach and dexterity of the hand. Measuring hand span can be useful for activities such as playing musical instruments or determining glove size.
Conclusion
Measuring your hand size is a crucial step towards understanding and optimizing your performance in the game of basketball.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can determine your hand size accurately and leverage that knowledge to enhance your skills on the court.
Remember, while hand size may present certain advantages or challenges, consistent practice, proper technique, and dedication can help you overcome any limitations and reach your full potential as a basketball player.
So, measure your hand size, apply the tips provided, and get ready to elevate your game to new heights!
FAQ
How is NFL hand size measured?
The standard method of how the NFL measure hand size at the NFL scouting combine involves measuring the distance from the tip of the thumb to the tip of the pinky finger with the hand fully outstretched.
These key measurements are taken using a tape measure or ruler and provide an indication of hand length for players going into the National Football League.
Is 7 inch hands small?
The average hand size for adult males ranges from around 7.6 to 8.6 inches (19.3 to 21.9 cm), measured from the tip of the thumb to the tip of the pinky finger when the hand is fully outstretched.
So a hand size of 7 inches would be slightly smaller than the average.
Is a 8 inch hand big?
The average hand size for adult males typically ranges from around 7.6 to 8.6 inches (19.3 to 21.9 cm), measured from the tip of the thumb to the tip of the pinky finger when the hand is fully outstretched.
So having an 8-inch hand would be about average.
Are 10 inch hands big?
Yes, 10-inch hands can generally be considered big. The average hand size for adult males typically ranges from around 7.6 to 8.6 inches (19.3 to 21.9 cm), measured from the tip of the thumb to the tip of the pinky finger when the hand is fully outstretched.
So having 10-inch hands would be larger than the average.
