Improve grip strength to improve your life

Our Fit over 50s program has come along in leaps and bounds in the last few years. Backed by the QLD Government, the program is designed specifically at improving strength, movement and general fitness in older adults - all of this done in a nonthreatening, social and enjoyable environment. 

At SOF we run our testing week every 12 weeks focusing on a broad range of metrics involved in determining health and fitness. 

With regard to our over 50s, we tailor the testing week specific to their population and ensure what we are measuring is relevant and valuable information for the client and their affiliated practitioners (if applicable). 

We break our over 50s testing into three categories, including strength (both endurance and absolute), metabolic fitness and range of motion.

One of the most important absolute strength tests we conduct is a Grip Strength Test. 

If you look at the details, Grip strength is considered as an “indispensable biomarker”. Research suggests that grip strength is largely consistent as an explanator of concurrent overall strength, upper limb function, bone mineral density, fractures, falls, malnutrition, cognitive impairment, depression, sleep problems, diabetes, multimorbidity, and quality of life. 

Evidence is also provided for a predictive link between grip strength and all-cause and disease-specific mortality, future function, bone mineral density, fractures, cognition and depression, and problems associated with hospitalization.

Below is a breakdown of some of the data collected from the grip strength test for the clients of our Fit over 50s program between our two July and October testing windows. 

We saw an impressive improvement in grip strength of all the repeat testers with an average increase of 10kg on both dominant and nondominant hands of those who tested as a result of regularly involving themselves in our Fit over 50s training sessions. 

Our programming consists of simple and effective strength exercises. All sessions are supervised by an Exercise Scientist or Physiologist with an emphasis placed on technique and posture to ensure safe and healthy movement. 

So if you are over 50 and hoping to live a stronger, healthier and happier life long into the future get in touch here - we’d love to have you on board.