Finger Exercise

Hi all, I was wondering if anyone has experienced the following. I've been working on strengthening my structure and have found an exercise which seems to help. I do it away from the piano. I simply raise and extend all my fingers. I then lift my index finger while still extended and at the same time flex all my other fingers downwards. I really feel that this has been strengthening my arch. Does anyone have any idea why this would be? Also when I do this I hear a cracking noise in my hand? I'm not quite sure why that is. I am double jointed in my fingers so not sure if that has anything to do with it. Thanks!

The popping noise is caused by a small vacuum created in the sinovial fluid sack within the joint itself. The joint expands to create this vacuum. This exercise can be very useful IF YOU DO IT IN AN INTEGRATED WAY. If you isolate the fingers and stiffen the arm when you stretch them like that, it can be very harmful. If you notice an improvement, you are probably doing it right. AFF

Any idea why this would be helpful? It seems to strengthen forearm muscles...

The forearm extensors are an integral part of the movement equation at the piano just as the quadriceps takes a crucial part in the runnning action. This exercise you developed does something nice for the relationship between flexors and extensors which need to work effectively together if you are to play well.

The poping noise is when a small vacuum created in the sinovial fluid sack, and it could be harmful. If you did it too much, the bond in your hand may become bigger. Try to practice without creating the noise in your hand bond, it's more better.

The cracking noise is entirely normal. Scientists have proven that cracking doesnt weaken your grip. Actually, it helps your fingers more relaxed and flexible. Good luck