Abstract
Aim: Handgrip strength is considered an important health indicator. It is extremely important to establish normative values so that the handgrip strength is correctly interpreted in adolescents. The present study aims to establish normative values of handgrip strength (HGS) for adolescents, according to chronological age and sexual maturation. Methods: Data from three large projects carried out in Florianopolis and São José, Santa Catarina were used, corresponding to a sample of 2,637 adolescents aged 14 to 19 years old of both sexes (1,428 girls). The HGS of the right and left hands was measured by a manual dynamometer, and total HGS being defined by the sum of the left hand and the right-hand strength. Sexual maturation was determined by the development of pubic hair. The percentiles 3, 10, 15, 25, 50, 75, 85, 90, and 97 were calculated for the right, left, and total HGS. The percentile ranges < p15 (low), p15-p85 (normal) and > p85 (high) were used. ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests were applied. Results: In boys, the mean total HGS ranged from 67.5 ± 16.5 to 86.9 ± 21.8 (p < 0.001) and 74.3 ± 17.5 to 82.2 ± 17.8 (p < 0.001) for age and sexual maturation, respectively, while in girls the mean HGS total ranged from 48.8 ± 11.3 to 56.4 ± 16.0 (p = 0.127) and 47.8 ± 10.6 to 54.3 ± 12.3 (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Reference values established by the percentile score, can be used to identify adolescents with better athletic condition and can be useful for prescribing exercises.
Highlights
Muscle strength has been considered an important general health indicator
In view of the presented gaps, the present study aimed to propose normative values of handgrip strength (HGS), according to chronological age and sexual maturation, in adolescents from Southern Brazil
These results are valuable for the areas of physical activity and health and sports performance, as they can be used as a basis for the exercise prescription and to identify adolescents with good athletic conditions[30]
Summary
Muscle strength has been considered an important general health indicator. This component of physical fitness can be measured in different muscle groups and through different protocols[1]. One of the forms of muscle strength manifestation, handgrip strength (HGS), measured by a handheld dynamometer, has been a recommended method for assessing muscle strength[2]. There is a wide range of evidence pointing to low HGS as an indicator of mortality by all causes, risk of disability[3], bone fracture[4], and depression[5] in different age groups. These relationships between health outcomes and muscle strength reinforce the importance of monitoring these component physical fitness levels throughout the life course[6]
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