title: "Blob Weights" description: "Comprehensive guide to blob weights, block weights, and pinch grip implements" category: "Equipment" tags: ["blob-weights", "pinch-grip", "block-weights", "york-blobs", "equipment"] related: ["pinch-grip-training", "support-grip-training", "hand-grippers", "grip-sport-training"]

Blob Weights

Blob weights are specialized pinch grip implements created by removing the rim from weight plates, leaving only the center hub and a portion of the plate body. These implements provide an extreme test of pinch grip strength and have become iconic in the grip sport community.

Overview

Blob weights originated from the practice of removing the rim from York 45-pound plates, creating a challenging pinch grip implement. The term "blob" refers to the irregular, organic shape that results from this process. Today, blob weights are manufactured by various companies and come in different weights and sizes.

Types of Blob Weights

York Blobs

Origin: The original blob weights, created from York 45-pound plates

Characteristics:

  • Weight: Approximately 45 pounds (20.4 kg)
  • Material: Cast iron
  • Shape: Irregular, organic form
  • Difficulty: Extremely challenging for most people
  • Availability: Rare, as original York plates are no longer manufactured

Training Applications:

  • Pinch Grip Development: Ultimate test of pinch grip strength
  • Competition Events: Featured in many grip sport competitions
  • Progression Training: Used as ultimate goal for pinch grip development
  • Strength Testing: Benchmark for elite pinch grip strength

Cannon PowerWorks Blob50

Website: Cannon PowerWorks

Characteristics:

  • Weight: 50 pounds (22.7 kg)
  • Material: Cast iron
  • Design: Modern recreation of York blob concept
  • Quality: High-quality manufacturing and consistency
  • Availability: Readily available from Cannon PowerWorks

Features:

  • Consistent Weight: Precise 50-pound weight
  • Quality Control: High manufacturing standards
  • Competition Grade: Used in official competitions
  • Training Tool: Excellent for serious pinch grip development

Silihrov Blobs

Website: Silihrov

Characteristics:

  • Weight Range: Various weights available
  • Material: High-quality cast iron
  • Design: Modern blob design with consistent specifications
  • Quality: Professional-grade manufacturing
  • Availability: International shipping available

Features:

  • Multiple Weights: Various difficulty levels
  • Consistent Quality: Reliable manufacturing standards
  • Competition Use: Approved for official competitions
  • Training Progression: Multiple weights for systematic progression

Holle Blobs

Characteristics:

  • Weight: Various weights available
  • Material: Cast iron
  • Design: Traditional blob design
  • Quality: Good manufacturing standards
  • Availability: Limited availability

Features:

  • Traditional Design: Classic blob appearance
  • Good Quality: Reliable construction
  • Training Value: Effective for pinch grip development
  • Collector Value: Sought after by grip sport enthusiasts

Gods of Grip Blobs

Website: Gods of Grip

Characteristics:

  • Weight Range: Multiple weights available
  • Material: High-quality materials
  • Design: Modern blob design
  • Quality: Professional manufacturing
  • Availability: Good availability through Gods of Grip

Features:

  • Multiple Options: Various weights and sizes
  • Quality Construction: Professional-grade materials
  • Training Progression: Systematic weight progression
  • Competition Approved: Suitable for official competitions

Training with Blob Weights

Basic Technique

  1. Grip Position: Place fingers on one side, thumb on the other
  2. Hand Placement: Center the blob in your hand
  3. Thumb Position: Ensure thumb is opposite to fingers
  4. Body Position: Stand with good posture
  5. Lift Motion: Use legs and back to assist the lift
  6. Hold Position: Maintain grip throughout the lift

Training Methods

Static Holds

  • Purpose: Build endurance and lock-out strength
  • Implementation: Hold blob at various heights
  • Duration: 5-30 seconds depending on strength
  • Frequency: 2-3 times per week
  • Progression: Increase hold time before increasing weight

Partial Lifts

  • Purpose: Build strength through specific ranges
  • Implementation: Lift blob to various heights
  • Range: Work from different starting positions
  • Frequency: 2-3 times per week
  • Progression: Increase range of motion over time

Negative Training

  • Purpose: Build strength beyond current positive ability
  • Implementation: Lower blob slowly from elevated position
  • Load: Use heavier blob than current max
  • Frequency: 1-2 times per week
  • Progression: Increase lowering time and weight

Assisted Lifts

  • Purpose: Build strength and confidence
  • Implementation: Use assistance to complete full lifts
  • Methods: Rubber bands, partner assistance, or partial support
  • Frequency: 2-3 times per week
  • Progression: Gradually reduce assistance over time

Training Programming

Beginner Program (0-6 months)

Goals: Build base strength, learn proper technique

Training Focus:

  • Technique Development: Master proper grip and body position
  • Base Building: Develop foundational pinch grip strength
  • Progression: Start with lighter implements or assisted lifts
  • Frequency: 2-3 times per week

Sample Exercises:

  • Plate Pinches: Use standard weight plates for progression
  • Assisted Blob Lifts: Use assistance to complete full lifts
  • Static Holds: Hold lighter implements for time
  • Technique Practice: Focus on proper form and positioning

Intermediate Program (6-18 months)

Goals: Increase specific strength, work toward full blob lifts

Training Focus:

  • Strength Development: Build specific blob lifting strength
  • Technique Refinement: Perfect lifting technique
  • Progression: Work toward unassisted blob lifts
  • Frequency: 3-4 times per week

Sample Exercises:

  • Partial Blob Lifts: Work through different ranges of motion
  • Negative Training: Lower blobs slowly from elevated position
  • Static Holds: Hold blobs at various heights
  • Competition Simulation: Practice competition conditions

Advanced Program (18+ months)

Goals: Master blob lifts, competition preparation

Training Focus:

  • Competition Preparation: Train for specific events
  • Peak Performance: Develop maximum blob lifting ability
  • Technique Mastery: Perfect competition technique
  • Frequency: 4-5 times per week

Sample Exercises:

  • Full Blob Lifts: Complete unassisted lifts
  • Competition Simulation: Practice under competition conditions
  • Peaking Protocols: Time strength peaks for competition
  • Record Attempts: Work toward personal bests

Equipment Specifications

Weight Ranges

  • Light Blobs: 25-35 pounds (11-16 kg)
  • Medium Blobs: 35-45 pounds (16-20 kg)
  • Heavy Blobs: 45-55 pounds (20-25 kg)
  • Elite Blobs: 55+ pounds (25+ kg)

Material Specifications

  • Cast Iron: Most common material for blob weights
  • Steel: Some manufacturers use steel construction
  • Coating: Various surface treatments for grip enhancement
  • Quality: Manufacturing standards vary by manufacturer

Size Specifications

  • Diameter: Typically 6-8 inches (15-20 cm)
  • Thickness: Varies by weight and manufacturer
  • Surface Area: Determines grip difficulty
  • Shape: Organic, irregular form characteristic of blobs

Competition Use

Official Events

Blob weights are featured in:

  • Grip Sport International (GSI) competitions
  • Armlifting USA events
  • Local grip sport competitions
  • Strongman grip medleys

Competition Rules

  • Standard Equipment: Must use approved competition blobs
  • One Hand: Single hand lift required
  • Complete Lift: Blob must be lifted to full height
  • No Assistance: No helping with off-hand or body positioning
  • Witnessed Attempts: Official competitions require witnesses

World Records

  • York Blob: Various records for original York blobs
  • Blob50: Records for Cannon PowerWorks Blob50
  • Other Blobs: Records for various manufacturer blobs
  • Age Groups: Records maintained for different age categories

Safety Considerations

Injury Prevention

  • Proper Warm-up: Essential for hand and forearm health
  • Gradual Progression: Respect the extreme difficulty of blob lifts
  • Balanced Training: Include extensors and other grip types
  • Listen to Body: Rest when experiencing pain or discomfort

Common Injuries

  • Finger Strains: Usually from excessive weight or poor technique
  • Forearm Tendinitis: From overuse or inadequate recovery
  • Thumb Issues: Can develop from imbalanced training
  • Joint Problems: Wear and tear from repetitive stress

Safety Equipment

  • Chalk: Essential for maintaining grip
  • Proper Footwear: Stable base for lifting
  • Clear Area: Adequate space for safe lifting
  • Spotter: Recommended for heavy attempts

Purchasing Guide

What to Buy First

  • Beginners: Start with plate pinches or assisted blob training
  • Intermediate: Add lighter blobs for progression
  • Advanced: Add competition-grade blobs for serious training

Where to Buy

  • Cannon PowerWorks: Blob50 and other blob weights
  • Silihrov: High-quality international blobs
  • Gods of Grip: Various blob weights and training implements
  • Used Market: Original York blobs through grip sport communities

Price Ranges

  • New Blobs: $100-300 USD depending on weight and manufacturer
  • Used Blobs: $50-200 USD depending on condition and rarity
  • Original York Blobs: $200-500 USD due to rarity and collectibility

Training Tips

Technique Tips

  • Grip Position: Experiment with different hand positions
  • Body Position: Use legs and back to assist the lift
  • Breathing: Maintain proper breathing throughout the lift
  • Focus: Stay mentally focused on the task

Progression Tips

  • Start Light: Begin with lighter implements or assistance
  • Be Patient: Blob lifts require significant time to develop
  • Track Progress: Keep detailed records of training
  • Stay Consistent: Regular training is essential for progress

Mental Tips

  • Visualization: Mental rehearsal of successful lifts
  • Confidence: Build confidence through progressive achievement
  • Persistence: Blob lifts require long-term commitment
  • Enjoyment: Find joy in the challenge and progress

See Also

External Links

This article consolidates information from the grip sport community, equipment manufacturers, and competition organizations. For the most current information and availability, consult manufacturer websites and grip sport communities.