Explainer In older women, a firm grip and a quick chair stand tracked with living longer
A study of 5,472 women aged 63 to 99 measured two simple things: how hard they could grip and how fast they could rise from a chair. Stronger women were less likely to die over the next eight years, even after accounting for how much they exercised. Because it tracked women rather than assigning workouts, it shows a link, not proof.
Jul 21, 2026
