I do this now alot. Getting older, I had a Merc Sable rear bearing was so frozen, I got ulner tunnel syndrome, pinky and ring finger went numb for a week.
You could also use a belt. It would also be better for your back if you stand right in front of the rod the hammer slides on and wrap the towel So you can have two handles one on each side then side the hammer back and forth by pulling it towards your boddy