Hand Grip Strength in Low, Medium, and High Body Mass Index Males and Females

Hand grip strength (HGS) is a predictor of upper extremity function and changes in muscle strength, physical movement and ability to undertake activities of daily living. Body mass index (BMI) is a critical indicator of physical health; however, the relationship between HGS and BMI has not yet been thoroughly examined. The current study aims to compare HGS in low, medium, and high BMI males and females in both hands, and also investigates the correlation between HGS and anthropometric characteristics among the three BMI groups. The study included 200 participants who were divided into three groups based on their BMI (60 low, 58 medium, and 82 high). HGS was assessed using a hand-held Jamar dynamometer. BMI was assessed by an electric body-weight height analysis machine. Data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics at P < 0.05. The results showed that there were significant differences in HGS (26.80 ± 5.83, 34.55 ± 7.84, and 42.30 ± 5.35 kgf; P < 0.001) among low, medium, and high BMI subjects, respectively. However, in this study ANCOVA was based on the covariance of sex; the three groups did not show major variations in RHGS and L-RHGS (P > 0.05). Weight and height strongly correlated with HGS for hands (correlation (r) ranged from 0.000 - 0.775). Regression analysis showed that when using sex and BMI as independent variables for predicting the dependent variable HGS, the coefficient of the determinant R2 was 0.753 (P < 0.001). The current study revealed that a significant difference existed in HGS among the low, medium, and high BMI groups. A positive correlation existed between HGS and weight and height, while sex was the most significant factor affecting HGS. These findings can serve as a reference to assess HGS prediction, whereby the sex effect should be considered.