Researchers at the University of South Australia developed the "most comprehensive" norms for handgrip strength for individuals across age groups and genders.
The norms published in The Journal of Sport and Health Science can be used for tracking healthy ageing by monitoring how handgrip strength changes over time.
Read the study here | International norms for adult handgrip strength
"Our research has established robust international norms that enable clinicians and exercise professionals to interpret and relate results in a percentile ranking," said lead researcher Grant Tomkinson.
What are the norms?
Adults below the 20th percentile are considered to have a 'low' strength, while those at or above the 80th percentile have a 'high' strength.
However, those between 20-39th percentiles have 'somewhat low' strength, while those in the 40-59th percentiles and 60-79th percentiles have 'moderate' and 'somewhat high' strength.
According to Tomkinson, muscle strength, which reflects the ability of the muscles to produce force maximally, is a powerful biomarker of current and future health.
A low handgrip indicates higher chances of physical disability and heart-related issues.
Throughout early adulthood, grip strength improves. It peaks between age 30 and 39, and then drops off as people age, especially in late adulthood, said the researchers.
Handgrip strength is measured by gripping a handgrip dynamometer and squeezing to record the highest force a person can exert over a few seconds.
Tomkinson said the norms will help clinicians better identify people who may be at risk of poor health and in need of interventions.
"So, what we have developed is an international guideline and benchmark that enables clinicians to compare and track muscle strength -- and therefore, potential health risks -- across the adult lifespan," the lead researcher said.
Those hitting the gym and working out can also improve handgrip strength by exercises including doing pull-ups.
