Sailors with a weak core may find handles attached to the side of the cockpit useful, particularly in more lively conditions. The handles can be dinghy/catamaran footstraps, kayak grab handles or the handles used to manoeuvre caravans.
The type of handle used is less important than its position. To determine this, the sailor should sit in the boat with the seat in its normal position (usually as far forwards as possible) and rest their arm on the cockpit coaming. Where their hand naturally falls gives the optimum position for the handle.
The handles are attached to the outside of the cockpit coaming as shown in the photos. 30mm stainless steel self tapping screws should be used as these will not only pick up on the glassfibre outer skin but also on the internal cockpit plywood reinforcing.
The disadvantage of using handles is that in cold (winter) weather the hand holding the handle is to windward so explosed to the full blast of the wind.