Handgrip Strength and Muscle Mass Indices in the Assessment of Muscle Strength and Muscle Mass Parameters in Women Aged 65–75 Years with Low Physical Activity

Abstract

Background: Age-related alterations in body composition, including the decline of skeletal muscle mass and strength, combined with increased adiposity, contribute to sarcopenia risk in older adults. Handgrip strength (HGS) is widely used as a functional marker of muscle health. Objective: To evaluate the associations between body composition, handgrip strength, and step-based physical activity in women aged 65–75 years. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in 246 community-dwelling women. Body composition, including Skeletal Muscle Index (SMI), was assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Handgrip strength was measured with dynamometry according to the Southampton protocol. Physical activity was evaluated using pedometers. Group comparisons and correlation analyses were performed. Results: Overweight or obesity was present in 75% of the participants. Reduced SMI was observed in 62.1% of women, while low HGS (<20 kg) occurred in 78.0%. Women with normal SMI demonstrated significantly higher HGS values. HGS correlated positively with lean body mass and SMI but not with BMI. Participants achieving ≥ 5000 steps/day showed significantly higher muscle mass indices and strength. Conclusion: Unfavorable body composition and reduced muscle strength were highly prevalent. HGS was strongly associated with muscle mass parameters, supporting its role as a functional marker independent of BMI. Step-based activity was associated with more favorable muscle-related outcomes.