Combined Grip Strength: Measurement Methods, Tools, and Functional Assessments

How do you measure combined grip strength?

Measuring "combined" grip strength typically involves assessing various distinct grip types—crushing, pinching, and support—using specialized dynamometers and functional tests, as there isn't a single device that quantifies all grip facets simultaneously.

Understanding Grip Strength: A Multifaceted Capability

Grip strength is a critical indicator of overall upper body strength, hand function, and even general health. It's not a monolithic entity but rather a complex interplay of different muscle groups and actions. When we speak of "combined" grip strength, we are usually referring to the aggregate capability derived from the effective synergy of these distinct grip types:

• Crushing Grip: The ability to squeeze and hold objects (e.g., shaking hands, holding a dumbbell). This is often what people primarily think of as "grip strength."
• Pinch Grip: The ability to hold objects between the thumb and fingers, without the palm being involved (e.g., picking up a coin, holding a weight plate).
• Support Grip: The ability to hang onto or hold an object for an extended period, resisting gravity (e.g., deadlifts, pull-ups, farmer's carries).

While these types are distinct, real-world tasks and athletic movements frequently demand their combined application. Therefore, measuring "combined" grip strength involves a comprehensive assessment of these individual components and how they manifest in functional movements.

The Gold Standard: Dynamometry

The most precise and scientifically validated methods for measuring specific grip types involve the use of dynamometers. These devices provide objective, quantifiable data.

Hand Dynamometers (Crushing Grip)

The Jamar hand dynamometer is widely considered the gold standard for measuring crushing grip strength. Other reliable electronic or hydraulic models are also available.

• Protocol:
  • Positioning: The individual typically sits upright in a chair without armrests, with their shoulder adducted and neutrally rotated, elbow flexed to 90 degrees, forearm neutral, and wrist between 0-30 degrees of extension.
  • Execution: The individual squeezes the dynamometer with maximum effort for 3-5 seconds.
  • Trials: Standard protocol involves performing three trials with each hand, with 30-60 seconds of rest between trials. The average of the three trials for each hand is recorded.
  • Dominant vs. Non-Dominant: Both hands should be measured, as there is often a significant difference.

Pinch Dynamometers (Pinch Grip)

Pinch dynamometers specifically measure the force exerted between the thumb and fingers. Common types include:

• Key Pinch (Lateral Pinch): Measured by placing the dynamometer between the thumb and the lateral aspect of the index finger. This mimics holding a key.

• Tip-to-Tip Pinch: Measures the force between the tip of the thumb and the tip of the index finger (or other fingers).

• Palmar Pinch (Three-Jaw Chuck Pinch): Measures the force between the thumb, index, and middle fingers, simulating holding a small object.

• Protocol: Similar to hand dynamometry, individuals perform three maximal effort trials for each pinch type, typically with a 30-60 second rest between trials, and the average is recorded. Positioning is crucial for consistency.

Functional Assessments for Combined Grip Strength

While dynamometers isolate specific grip types, functional tests provide a practical measure of how these individual strengths combine in real-world scenarios. These tests often reflect support and crushing grip capabilities.

• Deadlift Holds:
  • Method: Load a barbell with a weight that is challenging but can be held for a sustained period. The individual lifts the weight to the top of a deadlift position and holds it for as long as possible.
  • Measurement: Time in seconds. This test heavily taxes both crushing and support grip.
• Farmer's Carries:
  • Method: The individual holds heavy dumbbells, kettlebells, or farmer's walk handles in each hand and walks a set distance (e.g., 50-100 feet) or for a set time, or until grip failure.
  • Measurement: Weight carried, distance covered, or time. This is an excellent measure of support grip endurance and overall core stability.
• Pull-Up/Chin-Up Holds (Isometric Hangs):
  • Method: The individual hangs from a pull-up bar for as long as possible, either with an overhand (pull-up) or underhand (chin-up) grip.
  • Measurement: Time in seconds. This assesses support grip endurance, particularly in a hanging position.
• Plate Pinches:
  • Method: The individual pinches two or more smooth weight plates together (smooth side out) with one hand and holds them for time or attempts to lift them.
  • Measurement: Weight lifted or time held. This is a direct measure of pinch grip strength applied functionally.

Standardized Protocols and Considerations

Regardless of the method used, adherence to standardized protocols is paramount for reliable and comparable results.

• Consistency: Always use the same equipment, body position, and verbal commands for each test.
• Warm-Up: A light general warm-up should precede grip strength testing to prepare the muscles and reduce injury risk.
• Number of Trials: Multiple trials (typically three) are recommended, with the average score used to minimize variability.
• Rest Periods: Adequate rest (30-60 seconds) between trials and hands is essential to prevent fatigue from skewing results.
• Dominant vs. Non-Dominant: Measure both hands to identify asymmetries.
• Equipment Calibration: Ensure dynamometers are regularly calibrated according to manufacturer guidelines for accuracy.
• Environmental Factors: Temperature, time of day, and hydration can subtly influence performance.

Why Measure Combined Grip Strength?

Assessing grip strength, in its various forms, offers significant insights across multiple domains:

• Health Marker: Strong grip strength correlates with lower rates of cardiovascular disease, improved bone mineral density, reduced risk of falls in older adults, and is a strong predictor of overall longevity.
• Athletic Performance: Essential for sports like weightlifting, climbing, martial arts, gymnastics, and racket sports, where the ability to hold, squeeze, or manipulate objects is critical.
• Rehabilitation and Clinical Assessment: Used to track recovery from hand and wrist injuries, assess neurological conditions, and monitor the progression of muscle-wasting diseases.
• Occupational Demands: Many professions, from manual labor to surgical fields, require robust and enduring grip capabilities.
• Training Prescription: Identifying weaknesses in specific grip types allows for targeted training interventions to improve overall functional strength and performance.

By systematically measuring the individual components of grip strength and observing their combined application in functional movements, fitness professionals, clinicians, and individuals can gain a comprehensive understanding of hand and forearm capabilities, leading to more informed training, rehabilitation, and health strategies.