Using Electronic Handgrip Dynamometry and Accelerometry to Examine Multiple Aspects of Handgrip Function in Master...

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Human Performance
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Master athletes represent a growing demographic with unique physiological considerations.
• Assessing comprehensive handgrip function in master athletes is crucial for understanding performance and aging.
• Existing methods may not fully capture the multifaceted nature of handgrip capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the multivariate relationships among various handgrip function measures in master endurance athletes.
• To identify principal components that represent distinct dimensions of handgrip function.
• To explore the utility of electronic handgrip dynamometry and accelerometry in this population.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-one cyclists and triathletes aged 35-70 years participated in the pilot study.
• Measures included maximal strength, asymmetry, rate of force development, fatigability, submaximal force control, bimanual coordination, and neuromuscular steadiness using electronic dynamometry and accelerometry.
• Principal component analysis was employed to derive and analyze underlying factors of handgrip function.

Main Results:

• Three principal components were identified: 'robust strength' (maximal strength, rate of force development, submaximal force control, neuromuscular steadiness), 'bilateral synergy' (asymmetry, bimanual coordination), and 'muscle conditioning' (fatigability).
• These components explained 44.0%, 31.6%, and 24.4% of the variance, respectively.
• The findings highlight distinct dimensions of muscle function within master athletes' handgrip capabilities.

Conclusions:

• Electronic handgrip dynamometry and accelerometry offer a comprehensive approach to evaluating muscle function in master athletes.
• The identified principal components suggest a potential framework for a standardized handgrip function assessment battery.
• Further research is warranted to correlate these measures with specific human performance metrics and lower extremity function.