Study of Correlation of Handgrip Strength with Hand Anthropometry Amongst Indian Male Elite Athletes of Grip Related Sports

Introduction: Handgrip strength (HGS) is a critical functional parameter in many sports, particularly those requiring sustained manual effort and grip endurance. Hand anthropometry, including finger lengths, hand spans, and forearm dimensions, is believed to influence HGS, yet limited data exist for elite Indian athletes. The aim of the study was to evaluate the correlation between handgrip strength and hand anthropometric dimensions among Indian male elite athletes participating in grip-related sports. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 101 adult male athletes aged 18–30 years at a national-level training centre. Anthropometric variables including height, weight, BMI, wrist and forearm measurements, finger lengths, finger spans, and hand perimeters were recorded. HGS was measured using a SAEHAN® digital hand dynamometer. Pearson’s correlation and linear regression analyses were used to assess associations between HGS and anthropometric parameters. Results: Right-hand grip strength (mean: 49.48 ± 7.88 kg) was marginally higher than left-hand grip (mean: 47.58 ± 7.58 kg). Significant positive correlations were observed between HGS and forearm circumference (r = 0.641 right, r = 0.666 left), forearm length, finger lengths, finger spans (especially span 4), and hand perimeters (notably perimeter 1). Conclusion: Handgrip strength shows significant positive correlations with specific hand and forearm anthropometric variables. These findings have implications for talent identification, training personalisation, and injury prevention in grip-dominant sports.