Handgrip strength in young recreational skiers: Is it related to the risk of falling?

Handgrip Strength (HGS) is correlated with general health and fitness throughout the lifespan. However, the relationship between HGS and the frequency of sports accidents is not well understood. The aim of the present survey was twofold. Firstly, to collect HGS data from young skiers and compare them with existing normative values; secondly, to investigate whether the frequency of falls during a day of skiing is correlated with HGS. Data on HGS and falls were collected from 251 recreational downhill skiers, aged 6-25 years, on the day of recording. The results demonstrate the representative progression of HGS in boys and girls during growth and early adulthood. Additionally, the findings indicate that in young female skiers up to the age of 25 years, HGS is negatively correlated with the frequency of falls, which may be related to the generally lower muscle strength in females. Regular physical activity, including muscle strengthening and balance exercises, is crucial for preventing falls in skiers.