Abstract

The primary aim of this study is to define the norms as initial standards for handgrip strength for the Lebanese population. The secondary aim is to make a comparative analysis of these values with other available data. The study involved 303 healthy adults (179 males and 124 females) who represented diverse educational and training backgrounds across different regions of Lebanon. Participants’ height and weight were assessed. Grip strength was measured for both dominant and non-dominant hand using a standardized handgrip strength protocol. Handgrip strength values were presented as absolute and relative (i.e., normalized to body mass) values. The analysis indicates that the summarized maximal force from both hands (Fmax_SUM) and summarized rate of force development (RFDmax_SUM) in males and females align closely with international findings, within ±1 standard deviation. Compared to international standards, Lebanese handgrip strength values differ by 2.14% for males and 3.32% for females. However, more significant disparities are observed in explosive strength, with differences of 13.44% for males and 22.81% for females. Significant between-sex difference could be observed in Fmax_SUM (45.35%) and RFDmax_SUM (48.75%), with males showing higher values than females.

Keywords: Gender Dimorphism, Muscle Force, Rate of Force Development, Normative Data