Abstract: There is provided a device for programming motions and operational forces or torques of a robot, and a device for carrying out the method. The device includes a handle grip-sensor unit which includes a known sensor of forces and/or torques of the type which defines a load pick-up plate connected via spokes to a peripheral ring and via upright supports to a rigid base part. The peripheral ring is connected to an inner wall of a hollow body whose outer wall is shaped to match the contours of the human hand. The base part is rigidly connected either to an inertial platform or to an end link of the robot. The output of the sensor is connected to link driving means of the robot via a data-processing unit which converts the output signals from the sensor into data corresponding to forces or torques applied by the operator to the handgrip-sensor unit.