Relationship between hand grip strength and endurance and postural stability in active and sedentary older women

Abstract Physical activity, muscle strength and the ability to maintain postural stability (PS) are important for well-being in old age. Therefore, the first aim of this study was to assess the contractile abilities of the hand muscles (CAHM) in physically active (PA) and sedentary (SED) older women. The second aim was to examine the relationship between CAHM and PS indicators in older women. The sample of 75 women (aged 65–86 years), was divided into PA and SED group. Differences in CAHM, namely rate of force development and muscular endurance, were confirmed in favor of PA group, whereas, no differences were found between PA and SED group regarding maximum force. Moreover, CAHM were moderately associated with PS indicators. Obtained results could open space for designing routine tests that might serve as a potential prescreening analysis, which could indicate early risk factors for falls along with other age related health issues.