Hey,
I just started too... with the intention of actually doing it! (Have known about and tried jelquing when i was like 17, but thought it to be too time consuming so never bothered)
The grip some say is to be no stronger than what you would masterbate with. Maybe a TINY bit more, creating an "ok" grip with your thumb and finger. Your erection level should be about 60%-80%.
Today was only day 3 of me really giving it a shot (2 days on. 1 day off), but for the 2 days previous i did 5 min warm up (showers ok), then done stretches for 5+ mins and done 300 jelqs.
No pain, no redness... my dick was fat and plump and hung nice. But like after a workout at the gym. After sleeping and the "pump" goes, it looks pretty much the same as it did before. But gona see what happens over the next 4-5 weeks.
Just dont do a death grip on it, start light and judge as you go. But again DONT DO IT TO TIGHT! Thats when you get the red bumps.
I do believe that it works... but not many people are prepared to put in the man hours required. I myself have HEAPS of time on my hands. And ive always had issues with my size, even more so recently (Boyfriend)... So figured its a perfect time to try. I have between 3-8 hours a day free and alone so what harm would 30-40 mins a day do? Will keep you posted and report any change in size in about 4 weeks!