Grip Strength (Handgrip Dynamometry)
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Squeeze a calibrated handgrip dynamometer as hard as you can; the best of several trials (often summed across hands) indexes general muscular strength and is a validated marker of health and longevity.
Detail
Handgrip dynamometry is a quick, reliable static-strength test using a hand dynamometer (commonly Jamar adjustable-grip). Beyond rating forearm/hand strength, grip strength correlates with whole-body strength and is a well-established predictor of all-cause mortality, disability, and frailty, especially in older adults — hence its use as a clinical biomarker (e.g., in sarcopenia screening).
Protocol: adjust grip to hand size; stand (or sit per protocol) with the shoulder adducted, elbow ~90° or fully extended per protocol, wrist neutral; squeeze maximally for 3–5 s with no arm swinging. Take 2–3 trials per hand with ~1 min rest; record the highest value per hand (kg); report each hand and/or the sum of both hands against age/sex norms.
Interpretation: norms are age- and sex-specific (men higher). Low grip strength thresholds used for sarcopenia (EWGSOP2): <27 kg men, <16 kg women. (cutoffs differ slightly by consensus group/population)
Key facts
- Static max squeeze on a calibrated dynamometer; 2–3 trials/hand, record the highest (kg).
- Indexes general strength; validated predictor of mortality/frailty/disability.
- Norms age- and sex-specific; men higher.
- Example sarcopenia low-grip cutoffs (EWGSOP2): <27 kg (men), <16 kg (women).
Connections
- muscular-strength-norms — interpret the score.
- one-rep-max-test — dynamic-strength counterpart.
- timed-up-and-go — paired in older-adult functional batteries.
- seniors — primary clinical use case.
Educational content only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional for individualized guidance, especially around injury, pregnancy, or medical conditions.