Sports Coach Logo Sports Coach Training Principles Fitness Components

            topics

Trunk Flexion Test

Testing and measurement are the means of collecting information upon which subsequent performance evaluations and decisions are made. In the analysis, we need to consider factors influencing the results.

Objective

This test aims to monitor the flexibility of the athlete's lower back and hamstrings.

Required Resources

To conduct this test, you will require:

  • Flat non-slip surface
  • Metre ruler
  • Assistant

How to conduct the test

  • The athlete warms up for 10 minutes
  • The athlete removes their shoes, and sits with their legs out straight and feet 12 inches apart
  • The assistant places the ruler between the athlete's legs with the 15-inch mark level with the bottom of the athlete's feet and the zero-inch mark between their legs
  • The athlete leans forward, sliding their fingers along the ruler as far as possible
  • The assistant measures and records the distance of the tips the fingers reach along the ruler
  • The test is repeated three times
  • The assistant uses the longest recorded distance to assess the athlete's performance

Assessment

A good result is > 20 inches (51cm) for men and > 22 inches for women (56cm).

Analysis

Analysis of the test result compares it with the athlete's previous results for this test. It is expected that the analysis would indicate an improvement in the athlete's trunk flexibility with appropriate training between each test.

Target Group

This test is suitable for active athletes but not for individuals where the test would be contraindicated.

Reliability

Test reliability refers to how a test is consistent and stable in measuring its intended measure. Reliability will depend upon how strict the test is conducted and the individual's level of motivation to perform the test. The following link provides various factors influencing the results and test reliability.

Validity

Test validity refers to the degree to which the test measures what it claims to measure and the extent to which inferences, conclusions, and decisions based on test scores are appropriate and meaningful. This test provides a means to monitor training on the athlete's physical development.

Advantages

  • Minimal equipment required
  • Simple to set up and conduct
  • Can be conducted almost anywhere

Disadvantages

  • Assistant required to administer the test

Page Reference

If you quote information from this page in your work, then the reference for this page is:

  • MACKENZIE, B. (2005) Trunk Flexion Test [WWW] Available from: https://www.brianmac.co.uk/trunkflex.htm [Accessed