The Reciprocal Relationship Between Gait and Handgrip Strength Across Different Age Groups

Gayeong HyeonChanghun KimSunghoon Shin^*

• Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, Republic of Korea

This study investigated the reciprocal relationship between grip strength and gait function among different age groups to elucidate age-specific physical performance patterns. A total of 328 participants, categorized into young (19-39 years), middle-aged (40-59 years), and older adults (60-89 years), were assessed for grip strength, spatiotemporal gait parameters, and gait variability using validated measurement tools. Hierarchical moderated regression analyses revealed that grip strength significantly influenced gait performance, including stride length, step length, and walking speed, with the strongest effects observed in older adults. However, grip strength did not significantly affect gait variability, which was primarily affected by age-related neuromuscular changes. These findings emphasize that the mechanisms driving gait stability differ from those driving gait performance, with age-related declines in neuromuscular control playing a critical role in gait variability.In conclusion, older adults with higher grip strength demonstrated improved gait parameters, suggesting that grip strength could serve as an accessible biomarker for functional ability. In contrast, younger and middle-aged adults exhibited minimal changes in gait with varying grip strength, indicating a lesser reliance on muscular strength for gait maintenance.The study highlights the need for tailored interventions: rehabilitation for older adults should prioritize grip-strengthening exercises combined with gait stability training, whereas interventions for younger and middle-aged adults might focus on enhancing neuromuscular coordination and flexibility. These insights provide a foundation for age-specific strategies to mitigate physical decline, improve mobility, and prevent falls in older populations.