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Wada Bow Grip

To make holding the cello bow more comfortable, I have been using the Wada Bow Grip.


I am 71 years old with mild arthritis in my hands. When I began learning cello in May, I had difficulty establishing a comfortable bow hold. I was experiencing a little pain in my right hand and right thumb, and my right hand got tired after ten or fifteen minutes.

I purchased a Wada Bow Grip directly from the manufacturer for $27 plus tax and shipping. The Wada Bow Grip turned out to be a good solution for me. My bow hold is much more secure and comfortable, with no pain in my hand or thumb. The design is good because it requires relaxing the thumb, and it promotes proper placement and relaxation of the fingers. My cello instructor was in complete agreement that this was a good solution for me.

Wada Bow GripWada Bow Grip

Wada Bow Grip Installed on the BowWada Bow Grip Installed on the Bow

Holding the Bow with the Wada Bow GripHolding the Bow with the Wada Bow Grip

After three months, my hands are stronger and I’m more confident with my bow grip. I have begun practicing for short periods with a regular bow hold, switching to using the Wada Bow Grip when my hand gets tired. This week I have been able to practice for thirty minutes without needing the Wada Bow Grip.

I have to be careful to hold the bow with a relaxed thumb.

Bow Grip with a Relaxed ThumbBow Grip with a Relaxed Thumb

Bow Grip with a Tense ThumbBow Grip with a Tense Thumb

This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.