At 63, I've noticed some hand cramping on my fishing trips this season. I'm sure this is because of the type of work I've done over the years. Gripping hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches and other tools. It's not really bad yet, and some days I don't notice at all. A friend who is 10 yrs older, suggested that a thicker grip would help. He has the same problem. We both wrapped Winn grip tape over the entire handle, and reel seat area. It has helped tremendously. I may even put a second layer over one straight grip cork rod I use, to make it even thicker. The Winn grip tape feels good, and has helped to alleviate any hand cramping. Just a suggestion, if your having trouble with any hand cramp issues, you might try the Winn grip tape. You can double it up if need be, and still be casting, without annoying hand cramps. It's worked well for us.