What Your Grip Strength Says About Your Health in Australia

When most people think about measuring health, they picture blood pressure cuffs, cholesterol tests, or BMI calculations. But did you know your hand strength can reveal just as much — if not more — about your health? In Australia, average grip strength is becoming a critical indicator used by physiotherapists and healthcare providers to assess a person’s overall wellbeing.

Understanding Grip Strength

Grip strength refers to the force your hand can apply when squeezing or holding something. It’s not only about muscle tone — it’s a powerful indicator of muscular, neurological, and cardiovascular health. Measured using a dynamometer, grip strength is now used as a routine check in many medical and physiotherapy assessments across Australia.

If you’re wondering what your results mean, check out average grip strength, which breaks it down by age and gender for Australians.

Why Is Grip Strength So Important?

More than just how firmly you can shake hands, grip strength is closely linked to longevity, heart health, and risk of chronic disease. Multiple studies, including research from Australia’s own medical institutions, have shown that lower-than-average grip strength can predict:

• Increased risk of heart attacks and strokes

• Greater likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes

• Reduced mobility and functional independence

• Higher risk of early mortality

In short, measuring grip strength gives practitioners a fast, non-invasive way to gauge muscular health and possible future risks.

What Is the Average Grip Strength in Australia?

While exact numbers vary, here’s a rough guide for Australians:

• Men (aged 20–40): 40–50 kg

• Women (aged 20–40): 25–35 kg

• Older adults (60+): 20–35 kg for men, 15–25 kg for women

Anything significantly below these numbers may signal a need for strength training, lifestyle adjustments, or physiotherapy support.

Causes of Low Grip Strength

Many Australians are surprised to discover they have weak grip strength — especially if they feel relatively fit. Several common factors can contribute:

• Sedentary lifestyles: Long office hours and less manual work reduce hand use

• Injury or joint conditions: Wrist, elbow, or shoulder issues can impact grip

• Ageing: Muscle mass naturally declines with age (sarcopenia)

• Poor nutrition: Protein and vitamin deficiencies affect muscle function

• Chronic illnesses: Conditions like arthritis or diabetes impact nerve and muscle health

Whatever the cause, the good news is that grip strength can almost always be improved with targeted intervention.

How ME Physio Helps Australians Improve Grip Strength

ME Physio, based in Melbourne, is a trusted provider of evidence-based physiotherapy. Their team uses grip strength as a key part of functional assessments and rehabilitation planning. Whether you’re recovering from surgery, dealing with a chronic condition, or simply want to optimise your physical health, they can help build a plan around your goals.

Their article on average grip strength is a fantastic starting point to understand where you sit and how you can improve.

Benefits of Better Grip Strength

Working on grip strength offers several advantages, especially for everyday function:

• Improved dexterity: Helps with fine motor tasks like writing or typing

• Better sports performance: Essential for tennis, golf, and weightlifting

• Enhanced independence: Key for older adults wanting to maintain mobility

• Lower fall risk: Stronger muscles help with balance and coordination

These benefits aren’t just physical — maintaining good strength also supports mental wellbeing and confidence.

Easy Ways to Improve Grip Strength at Home

You don’t need fancy gym equipment to start. Here are a few effective options:

1. Squeeze tennis balls: A simple way to activate your hand muscles

2. Use resistance bands: Great for low-impact, high-reward training

3. Try farmer’s carries: Carry heavy grocery bags or dumbbells for distance

4. Do wrist curls: Light weights or even water bottles can be used

For the best results — and to avoid injury — consult with a physiotherapist to tailor the routine to your ability and goals.

Don't Ignore the Signs

If you're finding it harder to open jars, carry shopping bags, or complete daily tasks, your grip strength might be slipping. And while it might not seem serious at first, it's often one of the earliest warning signs of declining physical health.

That’s why more Australians are turning to clinics like ME Physio. Their in-depth assessments, hands-on therapy, and strength training programs help patients recover control of their health — one grip at a time.

Final Thoughts

We often overlook the small things when it comes to health — and grip strength is one of them. But this simple metric can provide powerful insights into your overall wellbeing. If you're concerned about your muscle function or just want to know how you measure up, start by learning about the average grip strength benchmarks and get in touch with a physiotherapy expert.

It’s never too late to strengthen your grip on good health.