Handgrip strength is associated with anthropometrics variables and sex in preschool children: A cross sectional study providing reference values

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of age, sex and anthropometric variables in handgrip strength and to determine norm-referenced values for preschool children.

Design: Cross-sectional study.

Setting: Schools.

Participants: A total of 1215 children, aged 3-6 years (590 girls and 625 boys).

Intervention: Not applicable.

Main outcome measures: Handgrip strength (HS), measured by the CAMRY hydraulic hand dynamometer (EH101; Camry, Guangdong Province, China).

Results: Boys exhibited a greater performance than girls in the 4 and 5 years age groups, but no significant differences were found at 3 and 6 years. In relation to growth, HS performance was greater with increased age. The Pearson correlation analysis showed significant correlations between HS and body mass (r = 0.354, p < 0.001), body height (r = 0.352, p < 0.001), body mass index (r = 0.164, p < 0.001) and waist circumference (r = 0.118, p < 0.001).

Conclusion: This study provides references values for muscular strength assessment by an HS test carried out on a large sample of preschoolers in relation to age and sex. Additionally, some differences in HS performance were found according to sex.

Keywords: Growth; Preschoolers; Sex; Strength.