Health
Grip Strength Signals Future Health Risks
Health Points
- Low grip strength may predict chronic illness risk and early death.
- Stronger muscles are linked to better metabolic health.
- Handgrip testing could support early health interventions.
Recent research highlights that weaker grip strength may point to a higher likelihood of developing chronic disease in the future.
Grip strength, a simple measure of muscle function, is emerging as a key indicator for overall health, especially for those with extra body fat.
Why Grip Strength Matters
In a long-term study, adults with the strongest grips were less likely to develop obesity-related health issues or die from conditions like heart or cancer disease.
Muscle quality, not just weight, turned out to be essential for longevity according to experts observing these trends.
“It suggests that grip strength, not just body size or BMI, is a key marker of metabolic health,” says Dr. Eric Angermeier, an orthopedic hand and wrist surgeon.
Muscle Strength and Metabolic Health
Lower grip strength is often a sign of weak muscle function, poor metabolism, and higher inflammation—factors that make chronic disease more likely.
“Grip strength reflects how well the body’s muscles are functioning, which in turn influences metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and inflammation, all of which are critical in obesity-related diseases,” explains Angermeier.
Experts recommend prioritizing muscle strength as much as body weight to support healthy aging.
Handgrip as a Health Tool
Handgrip strength offers a convenient way to track overall fitness, since it connects to muscle mass, function, and even bone health.
“Grip strength is a reliable indicator of overall strength and health because it is a simple, reproducible measure that correlates strongly with general muscle strength, physical function, and a wide range of health outcomes, including morbidity and mortality,” says Dr. Michael Fredericson, professor of orthopedic surgery at Stanford Medicine.
Lower grip strength is also linked to higher rates of hospitalization and longer recovery times, making it an important measure as we age.
“Monitoring handgrip strength over time may help with observing changes, and the initiation of early intervention as appropriate,” says Dr. Ryan McGrath, a researcher in aging and frailty at North Dakota State University.
Can Stronger Hands Lower Your Risk?
Although directly increasing grip strength hasn’t been proven to prevent disease, activities that build muscle—like resistance training—are known to support longevity and overall wellness.
“Regular strength training lowers blood pressure, improves insulin sensitivity, reduces inflammation, and helps preserve healthy body composition. So, while grip strength itself may just be the measurable marker, the actions that improve it are clearly protective,” says Angermeier.
Remember: Incorporating hand and forearm exercises into your routine not only helps your grip but may boost your health for years to come.
Stay proactive about your muscle health—try adding grip-challenging exercises to your weekly routine for a stronger, healthier future.
