Comparison of Hand Grip Strength and Hand Arm Anthropometric Measures among Volleyball and Basketball Players-A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Purpose Handgrip strength and hand-arm anthropometric measures were essential for preventing injuries and developing overall strength in player selection and practice enhancement in sports like basketball and volleyball. The purpose of the study was to assess the hand grip strength and hand arm anthropometry measures of both players and compare the hand grip strength and hand anthropometric measures of volleyball and basketball players. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted at the sports field. Data was collected over a three-month period (February–April 2019). A total of 60 players (n = 30 volleyball and n = 30 basketball) were recruited for the study based on inclusion criteria using the purposive sampling method. Hand-arm Anthropometric measurements were used to measure the components of the arm, hand, and fingers, along with their grip strength. Descriptive analysis was performed to analyze the anthropometric measures and grip strength of both groups. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to ascertain the relationship between anthropometric variables and grip strength. T-test was performed to compare the grip strength of both groups. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23. Results There was a major difference (MD = 3.63) seen among volleyball and basketball players. The hand grip strength of basketball players was greater (p = 0.021) than the volleyball players. The finger span, finger length, and perimeter showed significant correlation (p < 0.05) between basketball and volleyball players. Conclusion The study concludes that basketball players had relatively more strength than volleyball players. A significant correlation has been seen between grip strength, finger span, and hand perimeter.