Stress balls are nice to release our frustration on, but now they could also act as a way for individuals to improve their grip strength. Although we may not think of our grip strength as we perform everyday tasks, it could actually lessen the chances of having repetitive strain injury.

Now, a smart stress ball, known as Squegg, works by measuring a user’s grip strength and then sets a benchmark, which is displayed in terms of reps and pounds/kilograms of force. Individuals can then play grip strength-improving games and even compete with loved ones.

The sensors are wrapped in a soft, grippy silicone that makes the stress ball portable, lightweight, and available for daily practice no matter if you’re at work, on the bus, or walking.

Squegg offers simple exercise routines in the palm of your hand, while progress is stored via the app. The games offer exercises such as having you ‘swap force’ and squeeze the ball with left hand 50 times with a certain amount of force applied, and then switch to the right hand. This monitors the strength in a user’s hand and also compares it to those with whom they are competing.

Additionally, the Squegg is water-resistant and can reportedly run for about 80 hours on one, two-hour charge.

The Squegg could help monitor a senior’s arthritic hands, strengthen an individual’s grip before it’s too painful to open a jar of peanut butter, or help in recovering from a hand injury. Additionally, if you play tennis or practice rock climbing where grip strength is essential, this smart stress ball could be pertinent to your training.

As of now, the Squegg is only a prototype, but if launched the smart stress ball will run for $29 with a choice of two colors.