Dynamics of changes and sexual dimorphism in dynamometric strength of stronger hand based on Cracow Longitudinal Growth Study

Katarzyna  Żuchowska; Ryszard Żarów

doi:10.55225/hppa.690

Authors

Katarzyna Żuchowska University of Physical Culture in Kraków, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Department of Anthropology, Poland https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6967-2188
Ryszard Żarów University of Physical Culture in Kraków, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Department of Anthropology; University of Applied Sciences in Tarnow, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Physical Education, Poland https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5006-0798

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55225/hppa.690

Keywords:

dynamometric strength, somatic characteristics, women, men, sexual dimorphism, longitudinal study

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyse 18-year changes in dominant handgrip strength and assess sexual dimorphism in this trait among a group of participants from the Cracow Longitudinal Growth Study (KLGS) born between 1970 and 1972. The study was conducted twice—in 2004 (age 32–34) and in 2022 (age 50–52)—among a group of 84 participants (35 women and 49 men).
Handgrip strength was measured using the JAMAR dynamometer, and basic somatic characteristics were also calculated: body mass, body height, BMI (Body Mass Index) and upper limb circumference. The degree of sexual dimorphism was determined using the Mollison Index.
The results showed a significant decrease in mean gripstrength over the 18-year period—by nearly 3 kG in women and over 4 kG in men—with a simultaneous increase in body mass and BMI in both groups. High stability of individual differences in grip strength was found (r ≈ 0.65), meaning that individuals who were stronger at age 32 remained relatively stronger at age 50. Sexual dimorphism, while still evident, was slightly weakened. In women at age 50, the best correlate of grip strength was forearm circumference, while in men, it was body height.
The obtained results confirm that handgrip strength is a stable indicator of strength potential in adulthood, and its decline is a natural part of the aging process. The relationships between strength and somatic characteristics change with age and differ among women and men.

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