Handgrip Strength in Children and Adolescents Aged 3 to 16 Years and Residing in Spain: New Reference Values

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Introduction: Handgrip strength, measured by dynamometry (HGD), is a key measure in assessing physical condition and nutritional status. Its correlation with anthropometric measures and body composition makes it an accessible method for the evaluation of cardiovascular health. This study aimed to develop a new reference for right-hand dynamometry in the Spanish population and compare it with previous references. Material and Methods: A total of 3281 subjects aged 3 to 16 years (1608 females) from the PESCA, PASOS, and ASOMAD projects were included. Handgrip strength was measured using the same methodology in all cases. Data on age, weight, height, and BMI were collected, and the handgrip strength per kilogram of body weight was calculated. Sexual dimorphism in the temporal development of strength was analyzed, and multiple correlations were established between dynamometry and anthropometric variables. Results: Percentile curves and tables for dynamometry are presented for each sex, including data from as early as 3 years old, for the first time. Conclusions: Sexual dimorphism in strength development is confirmed, becoming more pronounced with puberty. In absolute terms, our study shows a decrease in handgrip strength among adolescents, occurring earlier and more markedly in females. When compared to the previous literature, the 16-year-old male adolescents in our study exhibited lower strength than those from 40 and 16 years ago.