how much does having a strong grip improve your punching power if at all? and if you do train hands/wrists/forearms what exercises do you do? iv just got myself a few heavy grip hand grippers. does anyone else use them?
I wouldn't imagine at all. Punching power comes mostly from legs and core. There is a noticeable difference in a solid grip versus a loose grip, but that has more to do with proper wrist position. That said, assuming proper technique and wrist position - then an average strength grip, would make no discernible difference from a strong grip. In fact, building forearm muscle and using a strong grip while boxing would likely be a waste of energy and induce lactic acid buildup in the forearm resulting in hand/forearm fatigue - hence a weaker grip in later rounds.
Grip strength is very important, it's been correlated to success in boxing. No need to train it specifically, if you're performing upper and lower body pulling exercises you're developing your grip strength at the same time.
It has something to do with punching effectively. You have to keep your fist clenched and wrists straight. chin-ups, pull-ups and even jumping rope will help. If you want "more" simply pick up a pair of heavy dumbbells and carry them around for as far as you can. I think they call it a "farmer's walk".
Any background information on this one? I just don't see it/feel it myself but it must be something I'm overlooking.
Well seeing as you are not supposed to clench your fists extremely hard at all while boxing I can't believe how it would help. Fairly meaningless I would say.
You ought to clench your fists right smart at the point the punch lands. Landing punches with a loosely clenched fist will wreck your hands.
While this is true, I think what speechless said is bang on. Yes you need a solid grip. But you dont need a vice grip. Personally if I clench my fists too tightly at the point of impact on say a hook, I will bring my knuckles forward too much causing bending of the wrist. That is not what you want. A solid fist is all thats needed. The glove and wraps will do the job of protecting your hand further (if they are up to snuff) and your technique is sound.