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

© David for PhysioDigest - an educational resource for the musculoskeletal rehabilitation community, 2009. | Permalink | 2 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: abdominal control, clinical measurement, core stability, muscle tone, strength testing

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