Correlation of body mass index with hand grip and scapular muscular strength in asymptomatic college students of Navsari city

Abstract

Background: Many college students today lead sedentary lives and often overlook the importance of muscle strength for maintaining overall health. This study aimed to explore how Body Mass Index (BMI) relates to Hand Grip Strength (HGS) and Scapular Muscle Strength in healthy college students from Navsari City. BMI is a common measure of body fat based on height and weight. HGS is widely recognized as a simple yet powerful indicator of overall muscular fitness and is typically measured using a dynamometer. Scapular muscles play a key role in shoulder movement and stability, and their strength was assessed using Manual Muscle Testing (MMT) on a scale from 0 to 5.Methods: The study involved 201 college students aged 18-25 years, selected through a convenient sampling method. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 182 students were included. Data collection spanned six months. BMI, HGS, and Scapular Muscular Strength were measured as outcome variables, and correlation analysis was performed.Data analysis: Using JAMOVI version 2.6, the data were analyzed through Spearman correlation to identify patterns between BMI, HGS, and scapular strength.Results: The findings showed a weak positive correlation between BMI and HGS (r=0.197), and between BMI and scapular muscle strength (ranging from r=0.044 to 0.141). However, a moderate positive correlation was observed between HGS and scapular strength (ranging from r=0.189 to 0.383).Conclusion: The study concludes that BMI has a weak positive correlation with both HGS and Scapular Muscular Strength, while HGS shows a moderate positive correlation with Scapular Strength.