Relationship between dominant and non-dominant hand grip strength and visual response time in kickboxing athletes

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the relationship between dominant and non-dominant hand grip strength and visual response time in kickboxing athletes. The sample consisted of 28 male athletes aged 16-20 years (mean age: 17.71±1.56 years) with an average sport experience of 2.64±2.68 years. Visual response time was measured using the Fit-light system after a standardized kickboxing warm-up, and grip strength was assessed using a digital hand dynamometer. The findings revealed that grip strength was significantly higher in the dominant hand compared to the non-dominant hand (Z=-2.03; p<0.05). Additionally, visual response time was faster for the dominant hand (Z=-2.99; p<0.05). There was a moderate positive correlation between age and grip strength for both hands (p<0.05), and a moderate negative correlation between age and visual response time in the dominant hand (p<0.05). No significant correlation was found between age and visual response time in the non-dominant hand (p>0.05). Height was moderately negatively correlated with visual response time for the non-dominant hand (p<0.05), while a high positive correlation was found between the grip strengths of the dominant and non-dominant hands. A moderate negative correlation was observed between grip strength and visual response time for both hands (p<0.05). Lastly, a moderate positive correlation was identified between the visual response times of both hands (p<0.05). In conclusion, the study suggests that hand grip strength may increase with age and height, and that both grip strength and visual response time are independently influenced by these factors. Improved grip strength in both hands may lead to faster visual response times, which could be advantageous in combat sports such as kickboxing.