Evaluation of abdominal muscular endurance through repeated trunk flexion (sit-up) movements.
Sit-Up Test (Trunk Flexion)
Test Objective
To measure a person's ability to perform sit-ups (or trunk flexions) over a given time or for a specific number of repetitions, in order to evaluate the muscular endurance of the abdominals and hip flexors.
Test Protocol
Required Equipment:
Floor mat or comfortable surface.
Stopwatch (if using a timed version).
A partner to hold the feet or a support to keep them firmly on the ground.
Execution Sequence:
The subject lies flat on their back, knees bent, feet flat on the floor, with hands crossed behind the head (without pulling on the neck).
From this starting position, the athlete raises their torso to touch their knees with their elbows, then returns to the starting position (without letting the back completely touch the floor).
They must perform the maximum number of sit-ups in 30 seconds or a defined number (for example, 50 repetitions).
The test ends when the participant can no longer perform the complete movement or loses proper form.
Results
Score = Total number of complete repetitions performed (torso raised to a minimum angle of 30° relative to the floor).
If a movement is incomplete (partial movement or arms not extended), it is strictly not counted.
Interpretation of Results (For 30 seconds)
Level
Men
Women
Excellent
> 40 repetitions
> 35 repetitions
Good
30–39 repetitions
25–34 repetitions
Average
20–29 repetitions
15–24 repetitions
Poor
< 20 repetitions
< 15 repetitions
(Note: Reference values may vary depending on age and training level).
✅ Advantages
A quick and simple test to perform.
Allows for the evaluation of abdominal muscular endurance.
Requires no heavy loads or complex equipment.
Easy to adapt according to the athletes' fitness levels.
⚠️ Precautions
Ensure proper execution of the movement to avoid tension or strain in the back.
Ensure the feet are firmly held to the ground to limit reliance on the leg muscles.
Strictly avoid performing this test in case of lower back problems or back pain.