Hand Dynamometers are used to secure an index of general upper body strength, an index of right-vs.-left handedness and general comparison purposes.  They may be used to formulate an index of endurance or fatigue, or may be combined with other forms of strength measurements for comprehensive data about a Subject's total physical fitness. 

Instructions for Measurement: 

1. Have Subject hold the Hand Dynamometer with the scale facing away from his/her face.  Adjust the grip size until joints of the Subject's fingers are approximately on a plane perpendicular to the scale plate.  When the adjustment is optimal, the subject will sense he/she can comfortably exert his maximum grip.

2. Move the indicator lever to zero with your finger.

3. Subject should stand straight with his/her weight evenly distributed on both feet.  With his arms handing at his sides, he should squeeze the Hand Dynamometer with as much force as possible being careful to squeeze only once.  Record the resultant scale reading.

4. Allow three trials with each hand, right and left hand alternating.  There should be a brief pause of about 10 to 15 seconds between each trial to avoid excessive fatigue.  Record the amount registered at each trial, but use only the highest recorded for each hand. 

5. Compare your findings with the averages shown in the Table. (Tables shown for children, boys and girls,  ages 6-18 and adult male and females 20-79.)

Note that the Tables are averages based on data obtained from large groups of people.  Significant variations from these figures should not necessarily be considered abnormal or indicative of a problem.  The testers judgment should also be used.  For example, one would expect a 30 year old man who is 6'2" and weighs 210 lb. to have a higher grip strength than average, and a 30 year old man who is 5'7" and weighs 135 lb. might have a lower grip strength than the average shown.

Strength testers are particularly useful in showing change over time.  For example, when a person first tarts an exercise program, by measuring at the start of the program and then at regular intervals, the progress of the person can be observed.  For someone who has had an injury and is undergoing physical therapy, measuring at the beginning and then at regular intervals can verify that the therapy is having the desired results.

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