A new study has found that there may be a connection between hand-grip strength and someone’s heart health. Researchers studied nearly 140,000 adults ages 35 to 70 across 17 countries to test their grip-strength and monitor their general health for four years. For every 11-pound decrease in grip strength, the researchers found a 17 percent increased risk of cardiovascular death, a 7 percent increased risk in heart attack, and a 9 percent increased risk of stroke. While it was not clear whether strength training specifically improves cardiovascular health or just improves overall health, researchers recommend regular exercise, including strength training, for adults.