Ambidextrous – Born or Trained?

Many people who call themselves ambidextrous were originally left-handed. The Left-Handed Store explains how that happens – and why it matters.

Ambidextrous people – those who seem to use both hands equally well – often appear especially skilled. But what’s behind it? Is ambidexterity natural? Learned? And how is left-handedness involved?

What does “ambidextrous” mean?

A true ambidextrous person can use both hands equally for writing, gripping, cutting, turning – with no visible difference. Such people exist – but they are extremely rare.

Far more common are people who claim to be “ambidextrous” but actually have a dominant side – usually the left.

How does ambidexterity develop?

At the Left-Handed Store, we often meet people who are actually left-handers trained to use the right hand. Why?

Social pressure: Especially before the 1980s, using the right hand was seen as “normal” – left-handedness was discouraged or suppressed.
Lack of left-handed products: From pens to scissors – everything was made for right-handers.
Constant training of the right hand: Left-handers had no choice but to adapt – and their right hand became skilled by necessity.

The result? The brain remains left-dominant, but the right hand functions well. Outsiders perceive this as “ambidexterity”.

What are the benefits of ambidexterity?

True or trained ambidexterity can be helpful in daily life:

Greater flexibility – e.g. in sports or manual tasks.
Compensation in case of injury or fatigue in one hand.
Easier handling of right-handed tools – even for natural left-handers.

Conclusion: Ambidextrous often means re-trained left-hander

The difference between ambidextrous and left-handed people can be subtle – but significant. The Left-Handed Store advocates for recognition and support of left-handedness. Only then can people fully develop their natural skills – without needing to “switch sides.”

Not sure which hand is dominant? Or need help choosing the right ergonomic tools? Just ask the Left-Handed Store!