RSSCore Muscle Strength and Stability Test
August 10, 2009 by David Fitzgerald
|
| Print
Filed under Physiotherapy Blog
This is a practical field test I came across to assess Core Muscle Strength and Stability which can be used clinically and has the attraction of having a sequential grading system to provide a scale. There is no particular emphasis on recruitment patterns here – so some readers may find that unpalatable…but nonetheless food for thought.
The Core Muscle Strength Test can be used to monitor the development
of the athlete’s core strength.
Required resources
To undertake this test you will require a flat surface, an assistant, a mat or
something to support the elbows and arms and a watch.
How to conduct the test
The assistant is responsible for instructing the athlete as to the position to
assume at the appropriate time sequence. Throughout the test the back, neck
and head should be maintained. If the athlete is unable to hold this position then the test is to be stopped.
The Core Muscle Strength Test is conducted as follows:
Stage 1
Using the mat to support your elbows and arms assume the Chinese Press
Up position
Once the correct position is assumed the assistant starts the watch
Hold this position for 60 seconds.
Stage 2
Lift your right arm off the ground
Hold this position for 15 seconds.
Stage 3
Return your right arm to the ground and lift the left arm off the ground
Hold this position for 15 seconds.
Stage 4
Return your left arm to the ground and lift the right leg off the ground
Hold this position for 15 seconds.
Stage 5
Return your right leg to the ground and lift the left leg off the ground
Hold this position for 15 seconds.
Stage 6
Lift your left leg and right arm off the ground
Hold this position for 15 seconds.
Stage 7
Return you left leg and right arm to the ground
Lift your right leg and left arm off the ground
Hold this position for 15 seconds.
Stage 8
Return to the basic Chinese Press Up position.
Hold this position for 30 seconds.
Stage 9
End of test.
Record the stage at which the athlete is unable to maintain the correct body
position or is unable to continue with the test.
Analysis
Analysis of the result is by comparing it with previous test results. It is expected
that, with appropriate training between each test, the analysis would indicate
an improvement. If the athlete is able to complete the test, up to and
including stage 8, then it indicates they have good core strength.
Target group
This test is suitable for active individuals but not for those where the test
would be contraindicated.
Reliability
Reliability would depend upon how strictly the test is conducted.
Validity
There are no published tables to relate results to potential performance in
competition.
Do you think this is a useful clinical test? Share your thoughts.
Enjoy the clinical challenge
David
Hi i would like to know if this test has been validated?
I doubt it. Very much a “field” test I think.
David