Thanks guys and for that link Joebob. I’ll just do that Vroom. It certainly can’t hurt. The hook grip looks like something to look into at some point.
One good way to improve forarm strength is to not use straps on exercises such as pulldowns, shrugs, and dumbell rows. Straps are almost a must on an exercise such as deadlifts, because it is not a grip exercise it is a back exercise and often if your grip gives out it can be a show stopper even though your back might still have more strength left.
Screw that. My gym does not allow chalk - down here in Florida it gets hella humid and you sweat like a pig.
No use injuring yourself doing heavy deads or pulls because your grip slips from the sweat for the sake of some bullshit powerlifting “purity”.
If no chalk, I strap.
I’d rather do some extra forearm work rather than risk injury. It’s a back/hamstring exercise not a grip/forearm exercise. I don’t really plan on competing as a powerlifter so it’s not that big a deal for me.