Grip Strength in New Zealand Adults: Normative Values

Hand grip strength is a widely used clinical and research measure, with international normative data well-established. However, regional-specific values are important given demographic and socio-economic differences. In New Zealand, no normative values have previously been published despite the country's unique population profile. This study aimed to establish hand grip strength reference values for a New Zealand cohort.

We conducted a single-centre retrospective study of preoperative patients undergoing hand surgery between January 2012 and June 2022. Hand grip strength was recorded from the non-operative hand in adults aged 18 years and older. Patients with conditions affecting upper-limb strength in the tested hand were excluded.

A total of 1135 measurements were analysed. In males, peak hand grip strength occurred at ages 30-34 in the dominant hand (52.0 ± 10.2 kg) and 25-29 in the non-dominant hand (48.3 ± 8.9 kg). In females, peak strength was observed at ages 25-29 in the dominant hand (31.0 ± 3.3 kg) and 30-34 in the non-dominant hand (32.1 ± 4.2 kg). Generally, there was a period of maintenance, followed by a general decline after these peaks.

This is the first study to present normative hand grip strength data across the lifespan in a New Zealand population. These values provide a population-specific reference to support clinical practice and research.