Required Resources

To undertake this test you will require:

Dynamometer
Assistant
How to conduct the test
The athlete using their dominant hand applies as much
grip pressure as possible on the dynamometer
The assistant records the maximum reading (kg)
The athlete repeats the test 3 times
The assistant uses the highest recorded value to assess
the athletes performance

Assessment
For an evaluation of the athlete's performance select the gender, enter the maximum
reading and then select the 'Calculate' button.
Gender
Male
Maximum reading kg


Assessment -
Calculations are based on the normative data table (Davis 2000)
[1]

Normative data for the grip strength test
The following are national norms for 16 to 19 year olds. (Davis 2000)
[1]
.
Gender Excellent Good Average Fair Poor
Male >56 51-56 45-50 39-44 <39
Female >36 31-36 25-30 19-24 <19
Clerke (2005)
[2]
conducted a study of the factors which influence grip strength in
teenagers.
Analysis
Analysis of the test result is by comparing it with the athlete's previous results for
this test. It is expected that, with appropriate training between each test, the
analysis would indicate an improvement in the athlete's grip strength.
Target Group
This test is suitable for active individuals but not for those where the test would be
contraindicated.
Reliability
Test reliability refers to the degree to which a test is consistent and stable in
measuring what it is intended to measure. Reliability will depend upon how strict
the test is conducted and the individual's level of motivation to perform the test.
The following link provides a variety of factors that may influence the results and
therefore the test reliability.
Validity
Test validity refers to the degree to which the test actually measures what it claims
to measure and the extent to which inferences, conclusions, and decisions made on
the basis of test scores are appropriate and meaningful. This test provides a means
to monitor the effect of training on the athlete's physical development.
Advantages
Minimal equipment required
Simple to set up and conduct
Can be conducted almost anywhere
Disadvantages
Specialist equipment required
Assistant required to administer the test
Referenced Material
1. DAVIS, B. et al. (2000) Physical fitness and fitness testing, In: DAVIS, B. et
al. Physical Education and the study of sport. 4th ed. Spain: Harcourt p. 123
2. CLERKE, A. (2005) Effects of hand shape on maximal isometric grip strength in
teenagers.Journal of Hand Therapy, 18 (1), p. 19-29.
Page Reference
The reference for this page is:
MACKENZIE, B. (2002) Grip Strength Test [WWW] Available from:
http://www.brianmac.co.uk/grip.htm [Accessed 13/8/2014]