Hand Strength: New Indicator of Fitness in Women Over 40
A new study suggests that the condition of hand muscles can serve as a reliable indicator of overall fitness, particularly in women over 40. This finding, led by Professor Ingo Froböse from the Sports University of Cologne, challenges conventional notions of fitness assessment.
Professor Froböse explains that muscle mass naturally declines by one to three percent per year in adults from the age of 30. This loss can be seen in the hands, making hand strength a simple yet effective measure of fitness. He also notes that a strong handshake can be a telling sign of overall physical health.
To combat this age-related muscle loss, Froböse recommends a combination of strength training, aerobic exercise, and flexibility workouts. These exercises not only slow down muscle loss but can also reverse it, maintaining and even improving overall fitness in women over 40.
The study underscores the importance of regular exercise in maintaining fitness levels as we age. By focusing on hand strength and incorporating a balanced workout routine, women over 40 can effectively combat age-related muscle loss and maintain their overall fitness.
