Fifth Element (Thumb Focused Pinch Trainer)
The Fifth Element – Thumb-Centric Pinch Trainer
Most pinch trainers miss the mark. They load your fingers just as much as your thumb—sometimes more—leaving the most undertrained digit still weak. As climbers, our fingers get plenty of work on the wall and in training. It’s the thumb that needs the real attention.
The Fifth Element changes that. By moving the loading point closer to the thumb, it forces it to do the heavy lifting while easing strain on your fingertips. This isn’t a big, blocky pinch you can “cheat” on—it’s climbing-specific, humbling, and highly effective.
Why It’s Different
- True Thumb Isolation – Two carabiner attachment points let you choose between a thumb-heavy load (main slot) and a more balanced, finger-inclusive option (secondary slot).
- Realistic Grip Simulation – The hand position mimics a real rock pinch. We tested other thumb-biased designs, but none were as convenient or climbing-specific as this.
-
Fingers Stay Fresh – Because the load is thumb-focused, you can train it hard without over-fatiguing your fingers before other sessions.
7 Training Options in One Tool
Pinch grips: Wide & Narrow
Edges & Mono:
- 22 mm Mono (slightly sloped)
- 15 mm Edge (slightly sloped)
- 13 mm Edge (slightly sloped)
- 8 mm Edge
-
6 mm Edge
Note: The Mono, 15 mm, and 13 mm edges feel slightly sloped because of the eyelet location—making them harder, but also more comfortable for open-hand positions.
Carabiner Compatibility – Read Before Buying
The Fifth Element’s integrated slots are intentionally small to preserve finger contact area. This means only certain carabiners will fit:
- Mini carabiners (recommended)
- Some solid-gate models
Large or wide-frame carabiners will not fit. If you don’t already have a compatible one, we offer mini carabiners separately so you can start training immediately.
**Updated video coming soon but if you're looking for a demonstration of it's use this is a good video:
Includes: 1 Fifth Element Portable Hangboard and a fun sticker!
The Fifth Element – Thumb-Centric Pinch Trainer
Most pinch trainers miss the mark. They load your fingers just as much as your thumb—sometimes more—leaving the most undertrained digit still weak. As climbers, our fingers get plenty of work on the wall and in training. It’s the thumb that needs the real attention.
The Fifth Element changes that. By moving the loading point closer to the thumb, it forces it to do the heavy lifting while easing strain on your fingertips. This isn’t a big, blocky pinch you can “cheat” on—it’s climbing-specific, humbling, and highly effective.
Why It’s Different
- True Thumb Isolation – Two carabiner attachment points let you choose between a thumb-heavy load (main slot) and a more balanced, finger-inclusive option (secondary slot).
- Realistic Grip Simulation – The hand position mimics a real rock pinch. We tested other thumb-biased designs, but none were as convenient or climbing-specific as this.
-
Fingers Stay Fresh – Because the load is thumb-focused, you can train it hard without over-fatiguing your fingers before other sessions.
7 Training Options in One Tool
Pinch grips: Wide & Narrow
Edges & Mono:
- 22 mm Mono (slightly sloped)
- 15 mm Edge (slightly sloped)
- 13 mm Edge (slightly sloped)
- 8 mm Edge
-
6 mm Edge
Note: The Mono, 15 mm, and 13 mm edges feel slightly sloped because of the eyelet location—making them harder, but also more comfortable for open-hand positions.
Carabiner Compatibility – Read Before Buying
The Fifth Element’s integrated slots are intentionally small to preserve finger contact area. This means only certain carabiners will fit:
- Mini carabiners (recommended)
- Some solid-gate models
Large or wide-frame carabiners will not fit. If you don’t already have a compatible one, we offer mini carabiners separately so you can start training immediately.
**Updated video coming soon but if you're looking for a demonstration of it's use this is a good video:
Includes: 1 Fifth Element Portable Hangboard and a fun sticker!