Average Grip Strength for Filipinos
The average grip strength for Filipinos is not specifically documented in the available evidence, but based on Asian population data, Filipino men would likely have grip strength values of approximately 26 kg for males and 18 kg for females in the dominant hand.
Grip Strength by Gender and Age
Male Grip Strength
- Average grip strength for men varies by age, with peak values typically occurring between 25-29 years of age (approximately 49.7 kg for dominant hand) and gradually declining with advancing age 1
- Men with no chronic diseases demonstrate higher grip strength (right grip strength = 44.2 kg) compared to those with 3 or more chronic conditions (right grip strength = 36.1 kg) 2
- The middle finger contributes most significantly to grip strength (31%), followed by the combination of ring and little fingers (29%), index finger (22%), and thumb (17%) 3
Female Grip Strength
- Women consistently demonstrate lower grip strength values than men across all age groups 1
- Women without chronic diseases have higher grip strength values (right grip strength = 26.8 kg) compared to those with 3 or more chronic conditions (right grip strength = 21.7 kg) 2
- The Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia defines low grip strength for females as below 18 kg 4
Asian-Specific Reference Values
- The Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia specifically defines low grip strength thresholds for Asian populations as below 26 kg for males and below 18 kg for females 4
- These values are lower than Western population standards, reflecting anthropometric differences between populations 4
Factors Affecting Grip Strength
- Grip strength decreases significantly with age, with notable declines observed after age 50 in both men and women 5
- Chronic diseases negatively impact grip strength, with each additional chronic condition associated with further decreases in grip strength values 2
- Anthropometric measurements including height and weight show positive correlations with grip strength 5
- Hand dominance affects grip strength, with dominant hands typically demonstrating 5-10% greater strength than non-dominant hands 5
Clinical Significance of Grip Strength
- Grip strength serves as a good marker of overall physical performance and may be more feasible to measure than complete physical performance batteries in some clinical settings 6
- Higher grip strength correlates with faster walking speed, quicker chair rise times, and better balance, particularly in men 6
- Grip strength is considered an indicator of overall muscle strength and a predictor of disability and mortality 2
Measurement Considerations
- Standardized positioning and instructions using a calibrated dynamometer (such as Jamar) are essential for accurate measurement 5
- Multiple trials (typically three) should be performed on each hand, with the highest value used for assessment 5
- If grip strength of one hand is known, the other hand's grip strength can be predicted with high accuracy (87% of variance accounted for) 5