Sit-to-Stand Test

Evaluation of functional strength and leg endurance through repeated sit-to-stand movements.

Sit-to-Stand Test

Test Objective

To evaluate a person's ability to repeatedly stand up and sit down from a chair over a given time or a specific number of repetitions. It allows for the assessment of quadriceps strength, muscular endurance, and overall motor function.

Common Protocol Types

1. 30-Second Chair Stand Test

• Objective: Maximum number of repetitions completed in 30 seconds.

⏱️ 2. 5 Times Sit-to-Stand Test

• Objective: Time required to complete 5 full sit-to-stand cycles.

Required Equipment

• Unpadded chair, standard height (approx. 43–45 cm), without armrests.
• Stopwatch.
• Clear space.

Test Execution (30-second version)

• The subject sits on the edge of the chair, feet flat on the floor, and arms crossed over the chest.
• At the "go" signal, they stand up completely and sit back down completely as many times as possible for 30 seconds.
• The tester announces the remaining time (e.g., 10 seconds).
• The test ends exactly at 30 seconds. The total number of fully completed repetitions is recorded.
• For the 5-repetition version: The objective is to perform 5 repetitions as quickly as possible, without pausing.

Interpretation of Results

✅ For the 30-Second Test (Young adults to seniors)

Age	Men (reps)	Women (reps)
18–39 years	14–19	13–18
40–59 years	12–17	11–16
60–79 years	10–16	10–15

Note: Completing < 8 repetitions in 30 seconds indicates functional weakness.

✅ For the 5-Repetition Test

Interpretation	Time (seconds)
Normal	< 12 s
Risk of functional limitation	> 12 s
Fall risk in elderly individuals	> 15 s

✅ Advantages

• Easy to implement, requiring no expensive equipment.
• Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
• Allows for tracking progress within a training or rehabilitation program.
• A highly reliable indicator of daily functional capacity.

⚠️ Precautions

• Do not perform if the subject experiences pain in the knees, hips, or lumbar spine.
• Ensure the chair is stable and will not slide.
• Clearly explain and demonstrate the correct posture for each repetition before starting.