What i feel is hold is more important considering armwrestling because in a match ur opponent can not generate same power for 1 minute every second passes power loses inch by inch while holding a weight force remain same for all time so when u hold a weight u actually practicing to pin the opponent in real match
In holds the bases are post strength hold , side pressure hold , hook hold and wrist lock hold if these four holds are strong u can pin a stronger opponent then u and heavier opponent than u. I know many guys who can not curl or lift heavy of any of those armwrestling exercise u seen but they can pin a guy who can curl 2 times in biceps,triceps,wrist and other parts .i am sure u guys also seen dat kinda guys too
the secret of their strength is holding strength. also normally big grip dumble is considered best for armwrestling training for grip or wrist strength but in my opinion gripper and heavy lifting without straps is better way like heavy deadlifts and shrugs and gripper isolates the grip only while holding weight in side pressure with big grip will put strain in ur wrist and u can not hold more weight and purpose to strengthen side pressure is killed and in real match pinching power is used not the curling power with big grip its is however good for those whose hands are small coz with small hands u need them little exta powerful.if i have to chose betwwen big grip curl and a gripper i will chose gripper
and also holds strengthen ur tendons which gives u faster recovery after matches and injuries coz mostly tendons injured in armwrestling so need to strengthen tendons first rather than muscles
