Differences in Physical Characteristics and Physical Fitness among Older Men and Women Based on Grip Strength at Criteria for Sarcopenia

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to analyze the differences in physical characteristics and physical fitness among Korean male and female older adults aged 65 years and above, based on their grip strength levels relative to the criteria for sarcopenia. Method: This study involved 1,726 older adults, consisting of 795 men and 931 women. Grip strength reference values of 30kg for men and 20kg for women, as suggeestd by the European Working Group Sarcopenia Society, were used to categorize participants into two groups: those with grip strength above the criteria (normal) and those below (sarcopenia). An independent t-test was applied to compare the mean differences in physical characteristics and fitness within and between age groups. The statistical significance levels was set at p<.05. Results: The following results were obtained. 1) There was no correlaltion between baseline grip strength and differences in physical characteristics (such as body mass index, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and mean arterial pressure) between age groups in men and women. 2) Differences in physical fitness between men and women exhibited varying patterns depending on the presence or absence of baseline vices. (1) Men in groups 1 and 2 showed differences in mean muscular grip strength and sit-to-stand test. Group 3 showed differences in the 6-minute walk, mean muscular grip strength, and sit-to-stand. Group 4 showed a difference in mean muscular grip strength only. (2) Women: Groups 1 and 3 showed differences in the 6-minute walk, mean muscular grip strength, and sit-to-stand. Group 2 exhibited variations in all items. Group 4 exhibited variations in mean muscular grip strength, sit-to-stand ability, and sit-and-reach flexibility. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study found no significant effect of baseline grip strength on physical characteristics in both men and women. However, physical fitness showed varied results depending on age groups. This highlights the significance of physical fitness in relation to baseline grip strength, which serves as an indicator of physical resilience in the group surpassing the established grip strength criteria. It is essential to emphasize efforts to maintain grip strength levels as individuals age.