Grip Strength and Chair Stands as Key Indicators of Longevity

Recent research published in JAMA Network Open highlights two accessible physical assessments—hand grip strength and the five-time chair stand test—as powerful predictors of mortality risk in older women. By tracking over 5,500 participants between the ages of 63 and 99, researchers discovered that those with the highest grip strength saw a 33% reduction in mortality risk, while those with the fastest chair stand times experienced a 37% lower risk. These findings remained significant even after adjusting for variables such as inflammation, sedentary behavior, and overall aerobic activity levels.

These tests serve as distinct biomarkers for aging-related health. Hand grip strength acts as a primary indicator of overall neuromuscular function and skeletal muscle output, while the chair stand test evaluates lower-body power, balance, and coordination. Because the correlation between the two tests is relatively low, they provide complementary insights into a person’s functional independence and physical resilience. The study suggests that muscle strength is an independent driver of health, offering protective benefits even for individuals who do not meet standard aerobic exercise guidelines.

For the general population, these metrics offer a practical way to monitor health at home. While formal grip strength measurement requires a dynamometer, functional difficulties—such as struggling to open jars or carry heavy groceries—can serve as early warning signs. Similarly, the chair stand test provides a simple, actionable benchmark: completing five repetitions without using one's arms in under 11 seconds is associated with higher strength levels. These tests underscore the critical importance of prioritizing resistance training to maintain functional capacity and long-term health as we age.