Handgrip Strength Performance Research Articles

Hand grip strength test is not an indicator of flexibility performance among teenagers

There are some opinions that say the hand grip strength test can be a good predictor of the overall fitness of an individual. How correct is that? Thus, the main aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between hand grip strength test results with flexibility level as measured by the sit-and-reach test. For the purpose of this study 69 teenagers aged 18 to 23 years old mean ± SD = (19 ± 2.7), with body weight mean ± SD = (64.49 ± 13.47 Kg) and height mean ± SD (163.82 ± 8) have been recruited voluntarily. All participants performed two times hand grip test on their dominant hand, and the best performance was selected for further analysis. Participants then performed three trials of the sit-and-reach test with only the best performance recorded for analysis. The Pearson-correlation was used to analyse the data. Results indicated weak or no correlation between hand grip strength performance with sit-and-reach performance (r = 0.08, p > .01). It can be said that muscular strength performance measured by hand grip strength test may not be used to also indicate flexibility performance. Further studies are suggested to be performed on other age groups and other fitness components.

Is prehospital physical performance a predictor of functional capacity decline at discharge in hospitalized Brazilian older adults?

BackgroundHospitalization contributes to functional decline in older adults. ObjectiveTo assess the relationship between physical performance on admission and functional capacity and functional capacity decline at discharge, and to investigate tools capable of predicting this decline. MethodsProspective longitudinal study with 75 older adults admitted to a public hospital between July 2021 and February 2022. The independent variable was physical performance evaluated on admission by handgrip strength (HGS) and the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). The dependent variables were functional capacity for basic activities of daily living (BADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) and their decline between admission and discharge. Statistical analyses were performed using linear and logistic regression and ROC curves. ResultsThe median time between admission and participant assessment was 1 day (IQR=1–2 days). Median hospitalization time was 18 days (IQR= 7.5–30 days). Functional capacity for BADLs and IADLs declined in 39% and 79% of the participants, respectively. Performance in HGS and the SPPB at baseline, in adjusted models, explained 29.3 to 35.3% of functional capacity at discharge. One additional point in the SPPB decreased the risk of functional capacity decline for BADLs by 20.9% (OR=0.79, 95% CI: 0.68, 0.91). The AUC values for the SPPB (AUC=0.67) and HGS (AUC=0.65) were significant in identifying functional decline for BADLs, but not IADLs. ConclusionIn Brazilian older adults, physical performance on admission was related to functional capacity and its decline at discharge. Physical performance on admission is predictive of functional decline at discharge.

Physical Fitness and Body Mass Index Status of Hong Kong Primary Schoolchildren across the COVID-19 Pandemic, before and after School Closure

To determine whether health-related physical fitness and body mass index (BMI) status differed before and after school closure from the COVID-19 pandemic in a population-based cohort of Hong Kong primary schoolchildren. We examined the BMI z score, BMI status, and physical fitness z scores including (i) upper limb muscle strength, (ii) 1-minute sit-up test, (iii) sit-and-reach test, and (iv) endurance run tests, among 3 epochs: prepandemic (September 2018-August 2019), before school closure (September 2019-January 2020), and partial school reopening (September 2021-August 2022), using a repeated cross-sectional approach. A total of 137 752 primary schoolchildren aged 6-12 years were recruited over 3 academic years. Obesity increased significantly from 25.9% in 2018/19 to 31.0% in 2021/22, while underweight increased slightly from 6.1% to 6.5%. All tested parameters were adversely affected by the pandemic. The negative trend over time was far more pronounced in all 4 physical fitness scores in the underweight group, although performance in handgrip strength had no significance between 2018/19 and 2021/22. Schoolchildren who are both underweight and overweight/obese are vulnerable to adverse changes in physical fitness during the COVID-19 pandemic. To eliminate the negative health and fitness outcomes, it is urgent to develop strategies for assisting schoolchildren in achieving a healthy weight, especially in the postpandemic era.

The effects of community-based exercise modalities and volume on musculoskeletal health and functions in elderly people.

The effects of different muscle loading exercise (MLEX) modes and volume on musculoskeletal health is not well-studied in older populations. Aim: Therefore, this study aimed to compare the effects of community-based MLEX modalities and volume on musculoskeletal health in elderly people. Methods: Elderly men (n = 86) and women (n = 170), age 50-82 years old, were assigned to the sedentary (SE, n = 60), muscle strengthening exercise (MSE, n = 71), aerobic exercise (AE, n = 62) and Tai Chi exercise (TCE, n = 63) groups, based on > 2 years of exercise history. Exercise volume was compared between "Minimum" ("Min" < 60min/week), "Low" (60-120min/week). "Moderate" (121-239min/week) and "High" (240-720min/week) volumes. Results: All three modes of MLEX were associated with lower percentage of body fat (BF%) and higher percentage of lean body mass (LBM%, p = 0.003 main effect of group, and p = 0.002 main effect of volume for both BF% and LBM%), but not with higher bone mineral density (BMD, total body, lumbar spine, total hip and neck of femur), than SE. TCE had a distinct advantage in trunk flexibility (p = 0.007 with MSE, p = 0.02 with AE, and p = 0.01 with SE), and both TCE (p = 0.03) and AE (p = 0.03) performed better than SE in the one-leg stand balance test. Isometric strength and throwing speed and peak power with a 2kg power ball were higher in the MLEX than SE groups (p = 0.01), in the ranking order of MSE, AE and TCE. However, there was no difference in handgrip strength performance between the MLEX groups, which performed better than the SE participants. Accumulating >120min/week of MLEX can promote body composition health and muscle functions, but 60min/week of MSE alone may have equal or better outcomes in these parameters. Conclusion: Community-based MLEX classes may be used to mitigate age-related chronic disease that are associated with body composition and muscular functions.

Changes in Estimated Body Composition and Physical Fitness of Adolescent Boys after One Year of Soccer Training.

Sports participation is one of the most popular forms of physical activity among youngsters. This study aimed to examine the changes in the estimated body composition, strength, and flexibility of adolescent boys after 12 months of soccer training compared with those of age-matched controls with non-sports participation. We assessed 137 boys (62 soccer players and 75 controls) at baseline (TM1) and 12 months later (TM2). The differences in estimated body composition, strength, and flexibility were investigated using a repeated measure analysis of variance. The analysis revealed a significant main effect of soccer training on fat mass (F = 73.503, p ≤ 0.01, η2 = 0.59) and fat-free mass (F = 39.123, p ≤ 0.01, η2 = 0.48). Over time, the soccer group decreased their fat mass and increased their fat-free mass, while the opposite results were observed for the controls. Among physical fitness tests, a substantial effect of soccer training was evidenced for the sit-up performance (F = 16.224, p ≤ 0.01, η2 = 0.32). Regarding the time factor, significant effects were noted for height and handgrip strength. No significant differences were detected for flexibility. Overall, the benefits of soccer training were exhibited by the larger improvements in fat mass, fat-free mass, sit-ups, and handgrip strength performance, underlining the important role of soccer participation during adolescence.

Physical performance tests and in-hospital outcomes in elective open chest heart surgery.

Physical performance tests are essential for a comprehensive health assessment, and have been described as predictors of disability and muscle mass decline after open chest heart surgery (OHS). We evaluated the association between physical performance tests with clinical outcomes after OHS in younger and older patients. Moreover, the ability of physical performance tests and European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation (Euroscore II) to predict death was assessed. Elective OHS patients were evaluated before surgery with handgrip strength (HGS), 30-s Chair-Stand Test (30sCST), and timed up and go test (TUGT). The outcomes were post-surgical complications, total length of stay (LOS), time to walk (TW), time in invasive mechanical ventilation (TIMV), and in-hospital mortality. Data were stratified between patients<60 (younger) and≥60years old (older). A total of 166 patients were included in the study (older, n=89). The only physical test associated with mortality in the adjusted models was HGS in older patients (p=0.03). Among older patients, both Euroscore II (AUC=0.77) and HGS (AUC=0.80) demonstrated good ability to predict death. Combining HGS and Euroscore II did not increase accuracy for mortality prediction (AUC=0.83). HGS performance was comparable to a well-established surgical risk score in evaluating in-hospital mortality after OHS, only in older patients. Functional testing before OHS could be a tool to improve risk stratification in these patients. Future intervention studies aiming to improve functional capacity before elective OHS can further clarify the impact of physical fitness in surgical recovery.

O timed up and go test pode ser utilizado como preditor da força muscular em idosos?

ABSTRACT This study analyzed the timed up and go test (TUG) as a tool to evaluate muscle strength in community-dwelling older people. As a methodology, an observational, cross-sectional and analytical study was conducted. Data from 442 older people were analyzed, both women (71.7%) and men (28.3%). Ages ranged from 62- 104 years, with a mean of 80.85 (±8.047) years. TUG was used as a tool to evaluate muscle strength. Comparison and correlation analyses were performed to compare performance between the TUG and the chair stand test (CST) and between TUG and handgrip strength (HGS). Analysis of agreement between the diagnosis of low physical performance on TUG and the diagnosis of muscle weakness on CST and HGS was also performed. The predictive values were estimated using the receiver operating characteristic curve. The analyses showed a moderate direct proportional correlation between TUG and CST performance and low inversely proportional correlations between TUG and HGS performance and between CST and HGS (p&lt;0.001). In the accuracy analyses, it was observed that TUG test could predict muscle strength in CST (S 34.4%; PPV 91.5%; NPV 26.1%; AUC=0.779; 95%CI 0.724-0.835; p&lt;0.001) and handgrip dynamometry (S 44.2%; PPV 77.4%; NPV 67.2%; AUC=0.652; 95%CI 0.599-0.705; p&lt;0.001). The Timed Up and Go test was able to satisfactorily indicate individuals with normal muscle strength in CST.

Changes in anxiety and depression levels after two exercises programs with women attending the Health Academy Program

This study investigated changes in anxiety and depression symptoms after two exercise programs with adult women attending the Health Academy Program. Based on non-probabilistic sampling, a total of 93 adult women (aged range: 19 77 years) were recruited into two health units, selected to receive exercise programs with continuous (CT; n = 53) or intermittent (IT; n = 40) characteristics. The activities were supervised for six months (twice a week; ~60 min) by a physical education professional. The primary outcome of the study was the assessment of the level of changes of anxiety and depression using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale. Physical function was assessed by a 1 mile walk test, handgrip strength, and sit-to-stand test. No significant group-by time interaction was observed for any of the investigated outcomes. Regarding the comparisons between moments, there were significant improvements in anxiety (F = 16.52; p = &lt;0.001; ηp2 = 0.15) and depression scores (F = 9.29; p = 0.003; ηp2 = 0.09). Furthermore, there were significant improvements in the one mile walk test (F = 70.36; p = &lt;0.001; ηp2 = 0.44), sit-to-stand test (F = 141.53; p = &lt;0.001; ηp2 = 0.61) and handgrip strength performance (F = 10.12; p = 0.002; ηp2 = 0.10). In conclusion, both exercise programs were equally effective in promoting beneficial changes on anxiety, depression levels, and improved physical function in women attending the Health Academy Program. Therefore, the decision to choose which protocol to use should be based on community preference and practical considerations.

The effects of daily physical activity intervention on physical fitness in preschool children

ABSTRACT The study aimed to determine the effects of 6 months daily physical activity on physical fitness in preschool children. A total of 72 children (36 boys) and 92 children (47 boys) composed the experimental (EG) and control group (CG), respectively. We used the PREFIT battery access physical fitness. In EG, participants had 45 minutes of organized physical activity 5 days per week. The CG continued their usual routine with 30 minutes of structured physical activity two times per week. The EG improved the mean performance of grip strength (η=0.08) and sit-ups in the 30s (=0.16) to a significantly greater extent as compared to the CG. In boys, the improvements of mean performance of handgrip strength (η=0.13), 4x10m shuttle run η=0.09), standing long jump (η=0.05), sit-ups in 30s (η=0.17) were significantly greater in EG than in the CG. However, girls in EG only had significant improvements in the sit-ups in the 30 s test compared to CG (η=0.14). Overall, our study shows that after 6 months of daily exercise programme, preschool children improved muscular strength compared to those peers allocated in the control group. No significant differences between groups were found in the remaining fitness components analysed.

CYP1A2 Genotype Modifies the Effects of Caffeine Compared With Placebo on Muscle Strength in Competitive Male Athletes.

Caffeine is commonly used to improve athletic performance across a variety of sports. Previously, the CYP1A2 gene has been shown to modify the effects of caffeine on endurance performance. The effect of caffeine on strength and power activities is unclear and may differ depending on an individual's CYP1A2 genotype. A randomized controlled trial was used to determine whether caffeine impacts strength and power, determined by the handgrip and vertical jump tests, respectively, and whether CYP1A2 genotype modifies any effects. Competitive male athletes (age = 25 ± 4 years) completed vertical jump (n = 97), and handgrip tests (n = 102) under three conditions: 0 (placebo), 2, or 4mg of caffeine per kilogram of body mass (in milligrams per kilogram). CYP1A2 (rs762551) genotype was determined from saliva samples. No differences between caffeine doses and placebo were observed for strength or power; however, significant Caffeine × Gene interactions were observed for all exercise tests. Individuals with the CC genotype experienced a 12.8% decrease in handgrip strength with 4mg/kg of caffeine compared with placebo (53 ± 11kg vs. 61 ± 17kg, p = .02). No differences were observed in those with the AC or AA genotypes. Despite observing a significant Caffeine × Gene interaction for vertical jump performance, no differences were observed between caffeine doses and placebo for all genotypes. In summary, caffeine (4mg/kg) worsened handgrip strength performance in those with the CC genotype, but no differences were observed in those with the AC or AA genotypes. Athletes may want to consider their CYP1A2 genotype prior to using caffeine to improve muscle strength.

Hospitalization is associated with handgrip strength decline in older adults: a longitudinal study

Hospitalization episodes in older people are considered critical events because they act in a complex interaction among immobilization effects. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of hospitalization on older adults' handgrip strength (HGS) and to identify factors related to its performance on the test. A cohort study was conducted in a hospital in Natal, Brazil, and enrolled all patients aged 60years and older between January 2014, and April 2015.Cognitive (Leganés Cognitive Test) and functional status (Katz Index, Lawton Scale and Functional limitation Nagi), physical performance (HGS and gait speed) and depressive symptom assessment (GDS-15) were evaluated at admission and discharge time, as well as information about health and functional status prior to hospitalization. Linear Mixed Models were used to create a predictive model for handgrip strength. A total of 1168 hospitalized older adults were evaluated. A significant decrease in HGS means was observed between admission and discharge time for men (28.12 ± 10.35 and 20.22 ± 14.08 Kgf, p < 0.01) and for women (19.18 ± 7.87 and 14.88 ± 9.79 Kgf, p < 0.01). Undergoing surgery and basal values of the Katz Index were associated with worse HGS performance at discharge. A significant decline in handgrip strength during the hospitalization period was observed, which was more pronounced in men. Performing surgery during hospitalization was an important factor for HGS decline in men and women. This study reinforces the importance of early mobilization and muscle strength loss prevention protocols in hospitalized older patients.

Acute effects of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching, massage and combine protocols on flexibility, vertical jump and hand grip strength performance in kickboxers

Background and Study Aim. Strength, power and flexibility are among the features that provide advantage against the opponent in kick boxers. There are many factors that can affect the development of these parameters in a positive and negative way before the competition. These factors may differ according to the type and intensity of warm-up and stretching exercises, depending on psychological and physiological conditions. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching, massage, PNF+massage on flexibility, vertical jump and hand grip strength performance in kickboxers.&#x0D; Materials and Methods. The sample group of the study consisted of 12 men (age: 18.50 ± 0.97 years, height: 161.60 ± 4.47 cm, body weight: 62.20 ± 9.07 kg, BMI: 23.77 ± 2.63), who did kick-box regularly for at least 3 years. This group performed 4 different stretching and warm up protocols on non-consecutive days. Warm up and stretching protocols were determined as follows: light jogging for only 5 minutes (NSM), PNF stretching (PNF), massage (M), PNF stretching+massage (PNF+M). After warm up and stretching protocols, participants completed vertical jump, flexibility and hand grip strength&#x0D; Results. There was a significant improvement on flexibility performance in order from low to high respectively NSM, PNF, PNF+M, M. Moreover, there was a significant difference between NSM and PNF, NSM and M, NSM and PNF+M in flexibility (p&lt;.05). There was a significant difference between PNF and PNF+M, M and PNF+M in favour of PNF+M in vertical jump (p&lt;.05). There was a significant decrease in right- and left-hand grip strength for all protocols.&#x0D; Conclusion. As a result of the study, PNF and massage can be recommended to kickboxers before flexibility performance. However, PNF and massage are not recommended before activities that affect the lower extremity, such as strength and vertical jump.

Self-efficacy and stereotype threat effects on handgrip strength performance in less active people living with HIV

ABSTRACT People living with HIV (PLHIV) are not physically active enough. As nonexercisers are perceived as less healthy, less active and less strong, it is likely that PLHIV would be subject to a nonexerciser stereotype threat. We looked to elucidate the effect of the emerging nonexerciser stereotype on handgrip strength performance among less active PLHIV. We also sought to observe the modulating role of self-efficacy in the relationship between stereotype activation and performance. Eighteen PLHIV were recruited to participate in two experimental sessions in which both a stereotypical context and self-efficacy were manipulated. Participants performed a handgrip task comprising a 15-s fatiguing maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVC) exercise preceded (Pre) and followed (Post) by 5-s MVCs. In each session, (i.e. high and low self-efficacy), four experimental conditions (i.e. Control 1; Control 2; Stereotypical; Self-Efficacy) were performed. A significant performance decrease of the 15-s fatiguing MVC exercise was systematically observed when the nonexerciser stereotype was induced (0.01 < p < 0.001). In addition, this performance re-increased after a high self-efficacy manipulation (p < 0.001). Pre- and post- 5-s MVCs were also significantly depressed after the stereotypical condition (0.01 < p < 0.001) and improved following high self-efficacy manipulation (p < 0.001). Our results revealed a detrimental stereotype threat effect on performance during a handgrip task when the nonexerciser stereotype was activated. A high self-efficacy feedback increased performances significantly whereas no significant difference was observed between the stereotypical and low self-efficacy conditions. These results indicate that self-efficacy can modulate the deteriorating effect of a negative exercise stereotype on task performance in less active PLHIV. Highlights Handgrip strength was decreased and performance fatigability increased when a negative exercise stereotype was induced. Performance fatigability and handgrip strength were restored after positive performance feedback was given. Positive task performance feedback could temper the detrimental effects of a negative stereotypical context among less active people living with HIV.

Fuerza prensil en adultos chilenos sanos de 20 a 69 años: un estudio transversal

ObjectiveTo characterize hand grip strength performance of the dominant hand and the non-dominant hand in men and women between 20 and 69 years of age from Valdivia, Chile. MethodsThrough a stratified non-probabilistic sampling by convenience, 401 healthy subjects were recruited and stratified in quinquennial age groups. Hand grip strength in the dominant hand and non-dominant hand was measured using the protocol established by the American Society of Hand Therapists (ASHT). Results were stratified and compared by age, sex, and hand dominancy. Results401 subjects (203 women) completed the study, of whom ∼94% had right dominance. Overall, the dominant hand of the men and women exhibited better hand grip performance in every quinquennial age group (p<.05), and the difference between the dominant hand and the non-dominant hand in the men and women was similar (∼4%). Peak performance in the dominant hand was seen in the men aged between 25-29 (46.2±6.6kg) years while in the women it was between 40-44 years of age (29.7±3.7kg), whereas in the non-dominant hand peak performance was between the ages 50-54 in the men (43.2±6.3kg) and between 40-44 in the women (28.2±4.1kg). ConclusionsAs expected, grip strength was higher in men in every quinquennial group, nevertheless, changes in performance with age were different between the men and the women, therefore these differences should be taken into account when this tool is used to assess upper limb function in a healthy population.

Evaluation of visual and auditory reaction time, pain, and hand grip strength performance before and after conventional physiotherapy in patients with herniated cervical intervertebral disc with radiculopathy.

ObjectiveHerniated cervical intervertebral disc (cervical disc herniation [CDH]) with radiculopathy is known to occur in seven or eight out of 100 people worldwide. This disease causes movement limitation, loss of strength, and pain of upper extremity. The aim of this study is the effect of conventional physiotherapy agents on predetermined parameters in patients with cervical radiculopathy and to compare the results with healthy controls.MethodsA total of 102 patients with CDH with radiculopathy and 98 healthy controls were included in the study. Visual reaction time (VRT) and auditory reaction time (ART) measurements were evaluated with reaction timer, while the pain was assessed with visual analog scale (VAS) and handgrip strength (HGS) assessed with hand dynamometer, respectively. Conventional physiotherapy (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, hot pack application, and therapeutic ultrasound) agents were applied 5 days/week for 3 weeks as treatment protocol.ResultsAs a result, VAS, VRT, and ART scores were significantly decreased, and HGS scores increased significantly in both female and male patients post-treatment measures (p<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between patient group and control group measurements in post-treatment evaluations (p>0.05).ConclusionThis study presents the conclusion to literature that conventional physiotherapy agents have the effect of decreasing pain and regaining motor function and also a therapeutic effect on VRT and ART in the treatment of patients with CDH with radiculopathy.

Physical Performance Regarding Handgrip Strength in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

The present study aimed to investigate the physical performance of handgrip strength (HGS) in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). A case-control study that included 70 women with PCOS and 93 age-matched healthy women aged between 18 and 47 years with body mass index (BMI) between 18 Kg/m2-39.9 Kg/m2. The serum levels of total testosterone, androstenedione, insulin, estradiol, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), prolactin, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) were measured. The free androgen index (FAI) and the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were calculated. The body composition regions of interest (ROIs) were assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and the handgrip strength (HGS) was evaluated for both the dominant and the non-dominant hands with a manual Sammons Preston (Bolingbrook, IL, US) bulb dynamometer. Women with PCOS had high serum levels of total testosterone (p < 0.01), androstenedione (p = 0.03), and insulin (p < 0.01), as well as high FAI (p < 0.01) and HOMA-IR (p = 0.01) scores. Compared with the non-PCOS group, the PCOS group had greater total lean mass in the dominant hand (p < 0.03) and greater HGS in both the dominant and the non-dominant hands (p < 0.01). The HGS was correlated with lean mass (p < 0.01). Women with PCOS have greater HGS. This may be associated with age and BMI, and it may be related to lean mass. In addition, the dominance effect on muscle mass may influence the physical performance regarding HGS in women with PCOS.

The relationship of pistol movement measured by a kinematic sensor, shooting performance and handgrip strength

ABSTRACT This paper aims to determine the relationship between the measures of shooting performance handgrip strength and weapon kinematics during different phases of the shot. The research included 35 participants who performed shooting sessions on 6 and 15 m shooting distance. Moderate (r > 0.388, p < 0.05) correlations were found between the handgrip strength and shooting performance. In the interval 1.0–0.1 s before the shot moderate correlations of weapon acceleration, accuracy and precision were determined (r > 0.310, p < 0.05) at the 6 m distance. Moderate correlations of shooting precision and rotational speed were found for the shooting distance 15 m for the same time interval (r > 0.413, p < 0.05). Moderate to high correlations of shooting accuracy, precision and weapon kinematics were found for both shooting distances (r > 0.405, p < 0.05) in the time interval 0.1–0.0 s. Absolute handgrip strength was a superior predictor of shooting performance than relative strength. Precision was more related to handgrip strength than accuracy and this relationship was more pronounced with distance. Correlations of shooting performance and rotational speed indicate high influence of the rotational component of weapon movement on the result.

Physical Fitness Maintenance In Members Of A Southeastern United States City Professional Firefighting Department

PURPOSE: Previous studies report that firefighters lacking an adequate level of physical fitness, even those classified as experts, can experience a severe physiological challenge in unpredictable environmental conditions. The purpose of this study was to assess and track the annual physical fitness performance of the members of a professional firefighting department. METHODS: As part of the annual health and fitness testing (data from 2002-2017) performed by the Bowling Green Fire Department (BGFD) in Bowling Green, KY, 153 firefighters had their physical fitness evaluated using standardized and recommended protocols published by the International Association of Fire Fighters. A mixed methods analysis was employed to examine differences over time for each of the dependent variables (push-ups, plank hold, handgrip strength, static arm pull, and static leg pull) using SPSS (v25). RESULTS: Handgrip strength performance significantly improved in the first 4 years after baseline (p < .05) followed by a steady, significant decline each following year (p < .05), with the exception of year 15 (p = .504). Push-up performance significantly declined from baseline (p < .05). The plank hold performance was maintained over the first 5 years of testing (p > .05) before showing marked improvement in the most recent year (p < .05). Although small, flexibility significantly improved from year 1 to year 2 (p < .05), but then was maintained over each subsequent year of testing (p > .05). Static arm pull and static leg pull both significantly improved for the first 4 years (p < .05), but then showed a steady decline thereafter (p < .05). CONCLUSIONS: Based on these results, physical fitness showed a consistent improvement in the first several years tested; however, several of the muscular strength-related variables showed a consistent decline thereafter. It will be important to continue to monitor and adjust the physical training regimen to attempt to alleviate any physical fitness decline.

Frailty, Physical Fitness and Quality of Life: a comparison between Physically Frail and Robust Older Women

Objective: The aim of the study was to compare physical fitness, quality of life and domains of frailty between physically frail and robust older women, whose was classified by the physical domain from Kihon Checklist.&#x0D; Method: One hundred and thirty-two community-dwelling older women participated in the study (68.5 ± 6.1 years). Data were collected through questionnaires (sociodemographic, Kihon Checklist, Short Form-8 items) and physical and functional tests.&#x0D; Results: Most frail older women lived alone (P&lt;0.01), had lower frequency of leaving home weekly (P&lt;0.03) and reported a greater history of fall events compared to the robust ones (P&lt;0.01). In addition, physically frail older women presented lower performance in handgrip strength, walking speed usual and maximum, and Timed Up and Go. In addition, they had worst results in other domains of frailty (i.e., instrumental activities of daily living, oral condition, socialization, cognition) as well as a lower quality of life. Older women leaving home in a lower frequency and living alone may present an increase of emotional issues and, occasionally, a decrease of the quality of life.&#x0D; Conclusion: Physical frail older women leaving home less present lower muscle strength and power and, a combination of frailties besides the physical one.

Time course changes in hand grip strength performance and hand position sense in climbing

The aim of the present study was to determine the time course changes in hand grip strength performance and hand position sense in novice climbers after one bout of two minutes continuing climbing on an artificial vertical wall. In addition, the rate of perceived fatigue of the participant felt right after the trial was recorded. Sixty five novice climbers aged 20 to 22 years (age 20.50± 0.65 years), were randomly assigned into two training groups with different tests protocols, the Grip strength test group (n=23), versus Joint position sense test group (n=14), and two control groups (n=14 each). The training protocol included one bout of two minutes continuing climbing on an artificial wall for both training groups whereas the control groups did not receive any kind of training during the study. Subjects were pre and post-tested for the selected variables. Statistical analysis showed that the grip strength was significantly decreased only for the training group F(6,216) = 30.460, p < .0005, partial η2 = .489. Similarly, the rate of perceived exertion changed significant F(2,563, 41,001) = 24.397, p < .0005, partial η2 = 0.604, with the training group to be more tired than the control after two minutes continuing climbing. Also, the wrist position sense of training group significantly deteriorated at post-test with F(3,78)=2,977, p<.05, partial η2 = .103. In conclusion, the performance of novice climbers is affected by hand grip strength performance and joint position sense of the hand. In addition it was required almost ten minutes of rest for partial recovery. These variables can be addressed through training design giving attention to those physical abilities.