Back-leg-chest test as an alternative to the handgrip testing for measuring body strength in adults

Abstract

The handgrip strength test is commonly used to measure muscle strength throughout the lifespan, other tests may offer equivalent information and potentially serve as better indicators of overall muscle strength. The primary objective of this study was to examine the relationship between handgrip strength and back-leg-chest strength tests. The secondary objective was to determine whether levels of physical activity affect the outcomes of handgrip and back-leg-chest strength tests differently. A convenience sample of participants aged 18–65 years was selected (n = 303), regardless of their engagement in physical activity and with no physical limitations that could prevent completion of the tests. In one laboratory session, they completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire to determine their level of physical activity and performed the handgrip strength and back-leg-chest strength tests. A high correlation was found between handgrip strength and the back-leg-chest strength test (r = 0.739,p < 0.001). No significant difference in handgrip strength was observed across different levels of activity (p = 0.135). However, significant differences were noted for the back-leg-chest strength test across varying levels of physical activity, with individuals engaging in moderate levels of physical activity demonstrating greater strength on this test compared to those with lower activity levels (p = 0.012). Evidence was provided of a strong correlation between the handgrip and back-leg-chest strength tests, with the back-leg-chest strength test also showing better sensitivity to levels of activity. Thus, the back-leg-chest strength test may serve as a more comprehensive measure of strength, potentially reflecting overall body strength due to its involvement of multiple joints.