Doctors check your blood pressure at almost every visit. Some researchers think they should be checking your handshake too.
The study
The PURE study, published in The Lancet in 2015, measured the grip strength of nearly 140,000 adults in 17 countries and followed them for about four years.
For every 5 kilograms (about 11 pounds) of lower grip strength, the risk of dying from any cause went up about 16%. Grip strength predicted death from any cause better than systolic blood pressure did.
Why would your hands matter?
Your grip is not magic on its own. It is a quick snapshot of your overall muscle strength. People with weak grips often have less muscle throughout the body, which is linked to frailty, falls, and poorer recovery from illness.
How to build a stronger grip
- Farmer’s carries: hold a heavy dumbbell or grocery bag in each hand and walk for 30 to 60 seconds.
- Dead hangs: hang from a pull-up bar for as long as you safely can.
- Squeeze work: squeeze a tennis ball or grip trainer for a few sets during TV time.
- Lift weights: rows, deadlifts, and pull-downs train your grip automatically.
The bottom line
Grip strength is a simple signal of whole-body strength. The fix is not hand exercises alone. It is getting stronger overall.
This is general information, not medical advice. Check with your doctor before starting a new exercise program, especially if you have a health condition.