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Hand Warm Up Exercises Free Printables and Video

Warming up your hands before writing, typing, drawing, or any fine motor task can make a big difference in your strength, coordination, and control. These hand warm up exercises are simple, fun, and perfect for children through adults. You can download the free two-page printable PDF along with a link to the hand warm up video at the bottom of this post. Practice the hand shapes and movements on the printable, then hit play on the video for a rhythmic, follow-along session. These movements make an excellent warm up before handwriting or other fine motor tasks. They also work beautifully as a seated brain break to boost focus, attention, rhythm, and hand strength.

Why Practice Hand Warm Up Exercises?

Hand muscles need activation just like the rest of the body. These exercises help:

  • Wake up the small muscles of the hand
  • Improve finger isolation and dexterity
  • Prepare the hands for handwriting, keyboarding, crafts, and playing instruments
  • Support overall motor planning and coordination
  • Encourage movement to a rhythmic beat, which research shows can improve attention and timing

The printable includes movements such as:

  • Close and open your hands
  • Thumb across palm
  • Okay sign
  • Spread fingers apart
  • Lift one finger at a time
  • Peace sign
  • Thumb-to-finger touches
  • Make a circle with your hand

Once you’re familiar with them, the video challenges you: Can you move your hands to the beat and exercise at the same time?

How to Use the Free Printable and Video

  1. Download the two-page hand warm up exercises PDF (link below).
  2. Practice each hand position and movement slowly.
  3. When you’re ready, open the video link included inside the PDF.
  4. Follow along to the beat and see how well you can match the timing.
  5. Use this as a quick warm up anytime your hands need to get ready for work.

Perfect for:

  • Classroom fine motor warm ups
  • Occupational therapy sessions
  • Home practice
  • Seated brain breaks
  • Pre-writing routines
  • Music, art, or typing class
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MORE HELPFUL RESOURCES

If you enjoy these hand warm up exercises, try these additional activities:

Download the Free Hand Warm Up Exercises PDF + Video Link

Get your free two-page printable and the follow-along video. Warm up, press play, and get those hands moving!

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