Grip strength across the life course: normative values and clinical use

Researchers combined results from 12 British studies involving 49,964 people aged 4 to 90. They measured grip strength with a hand device called a dynamometer, which records how hard someone can squeeze. Grip strength generally increased through childhood, peaked in early adulthood, and gradually fell with age. Men usually had higher scores than women. The researchers suggested that readings below 27 kilograms for men or 16 kilograms for women may indicate unusually low strength, especially in older adults.

What this means for you: These figures can help a clinician spot possible weakness, but one grip test does not diagnose illness or predict exactly how long someone will live. Do not buy a grip device or supplement solely because of this study, and remember that stronger grip has not been proven here to prevent disease.