EVALUATION OF GRIP STRENGTH WITH A SUSTAINED MAXIMAL ISOMETRIC CONTRACTION FOR 6 AND 10 SECONDS

The grip strength in which subjects sustained a maximal isometric contraction for 6 seconds (the 6-second test) was compared with that for 10 seconds (the 10-second test) to clarify a reliable sustained grip strength test procedure. Fifty healthy students (22 § 4 years, 25 men and 25 women) participated in this study. Strength was measured continuously by the Dexter 1 (Cedaron Medical Inc.). The maximal grip strength, the peak time, and the momentary strength every second during a trial were evaluated. For both tests, the reliable maximal strength and a typical strength-time curve consisting of an early peak time and a decrease in the strength after the peak gradually over time were obtained. In the 6-second test, the momentary strength after 5 seconds that was 82 § 10 π 87 § 7% of the peak strength showed good reliability. This variable may be effective in assessing the ability to sustain maximal grip strength.