Key highlights

• Objective strength testing improves training decisions, injury risk management, and return-to-play planning
• Handheld dynamometry reduces the subjectivity seen in traditional manual muscle testing
• The VALD DynaMo Plus combines strength testing and range-of-motion assessment in one portable system
• Automatic cloud syncing supports consistent long-term tracking
• Standardised protocols and fixed-point options help improve repeatability between sessions

Introduction

In sport and rehabilitation, accurately measuring muscle strength is essential for making informed training decisions, reducing injury risk, and guiding return-to-play planning. Traditional manual muscle testing relies heavily on assessor judgement and can be inconsistent across sessions. Handheld dynamometry provides a more objective alternative by quantifying force output in repeatable test conditions.

The VALD DynaMo range is a leading example of this technology. It combines digital dynamometry with range-of-motion.

How the DynaMo handheld dynamometer works

The DynaMo measures force using a digital load cell and reports results in kilograms, pounds, or newtons.

In addition to strength testing, inertial sensors enable measurement of joint angles and ROM. This allows practitioners to assess strength and mobility together and build a clearer picture of physical capability.

Key features include:

• Digital load cell for objective strength measurement
• Automatic syncing to the VALD Hub for long-term tracking

The DynaMo Plus supports hundreds of tests across major joints, making it suitable for both performance screening and rehabilitation monitoring. Objective testing supports performance profiling and can contribute to decision-making around readiness and progression when combined with clinical reasoning and training context.

Physiotherapy and rehabilitation

In rehabilitation, DynaMo supports measurable targets rather than estimates. Practitioners can quantify deficits, set realistic goals, and track recovery across weeks and months using stored records in the VALD Hub.

Monitoring progress over time

Because results can be stored and reviewed across multiple time points, practitioners can track progress and make better-informed training or rehab adjustments.

Best practices for conducting strength tests with DynaMo

Guidelines for reliable administration

To improve repeatability between sessions:

• Zero the device before each test
• Use consistent positioning and stabilisation
• Keep the device aligned with the direction of force
• Use fixed-point attachments where possible to reduce tester influence
• Follow the testing protocols in the DynaMo app.

Conclusion

DynaMo strength testing provides a practical, objective, and repeatable way to assess muscle strength and joint mobility in sport and rehabilitation. By combining handheld dynamometry with cloud-based data management, the VALD DynaMo Plus supports evidence-based decision making, helping practitioners monitor progress, design better programs, and guide return-to-play planning.

Frequently asked questions

References

• ‘VALD DynaMo: The Evolution of Handheld Dynamometry in Athlete Testing’. https://www.globalperformanceinsights.com/post/vald-dynamo-the-evolution-of-handheld-dynamometry-in-athlete-testing
• Nordic Balance ‘Handheld Dynamometers 101: Century-old Technology for the Modern Practitioner’. https://valdhealth.com/news/handheld-dynamometers-101-century-old-technology-for-the-modern-practitioner
• VALD Health (2025) ‘Buyer’s Guide to Handheld Dynamometers’. https://valdhealth.com/news/buyers-guide-to-handheld-dynamometers
• VALD Performance (n.d.) ‘DynaMo – Handheld Strength & ROM System’. https://valdperformance.com/products/dynamo