Question

Raghav plans to conduct strength and flexibility tests specifically for the lower body, targeting his grandfather’s friend. Explain in detail the procedure and scoring system to administer these tests.

Answer 1

1. Lower Body Strength: Chair Stand Test: This test measures the functional lower body strength required for activities like rising from a chair or climbing stairs.
   • Procedure:
     1. Place a straight-backed chair (approx. 17 inches or 44 cm high) against a wall for stability.
     2. The subject sits in the middle of the seat, feet flat on the floor, back straight, and arms crossed over the chest.
     3. On the signal "Go," the subject stands up completely and sits down again, repeating this as many times as possible within 30 seconds.
     4. The subject should aim for full extension of legs and back, then return to a full seated position.
   • Scoring: The total number of correct, full-stand repetitions completed within 30 seconds is recorded. If the subject is more than halfway up at the 30-second mark, it counts as a full stand.
2. Lower Body Flexibility: Chair Sit-and-Reach Test: This test measures the flexibility of the hamstrings and lower back, critical for walking and balance.
   • Procedure:
     1. The subject sits on the edge of a stable chair (placed against a wall).
     2. One foot remains flat on the floor, while the leg of the side being tested is extended forward, heel on the ground, and foot flexed.
     3. With one hand on top of the other, the subject inhales, then exhales as they bend forward at the hip, reaching toward the toes of the extended leg.
     4. The subject should hold the reach for 2 seconds.
   • Scoring: The distance between the tip of the fingertips and the toes is measured in inches or centimetres.
     1. If fingertips touch toes, the score is zero.
     2. If fingertips do not reach toes, the score is negative (-).
     3. If fingertips overlap toes, the score is positive (+).