Differences Between Grip Strength and Physical Fitness Level of Korea Elderly Men and Women According to Sarcopenia Criterion

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to compare and analyze the difference in physical fitness according to grip strength in elderly men and women (based on the European Society of Sarcopenia: male 30kg, female:20kg more and less). Method: The data were obtained from the 2015 National Physical Fitness Survey. The subjects, total of 880 adults (369 men and 511 women) aged 65 years or older were measured muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, balance and cardiovascular endurance. All measurements were presented with a mean (M) and standard deviation (SD), and an independent t-test was used to compare differences in physical fitness level according to grip strength. The statistical significant level was set to α＝.05. Results: The results of this study were as follows. 1) The normal group of male Koreans had relatively superior muscular strength, muscular endurance, balance, and cardiovascular endurance compared to those of the sarcopenia group (p<.05). 2) On the other hand, the normal group of Korean women was relatively superior in all measurement factors (muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, balance, cardiovascular endurance) compared to those of the sarcopenia group (p<.05). Conclusion: Although there are some dependent variables in differences between genders, we could see that grip strength is an important factor in predicting physical fitness level for elderly men and women. Therefore, in order to sustain and improve the physical fitness level of the elderly ones, efforts to strengthen grip strength should be given priority.