CURL-UP / SIT-UP/ CRUNCH TEST

Purpose: The curl up test measures abdominal muscular strength and endurance of the abdominals and hip-flexors, important in back support and core stability.

Sit-up technique: The subject lies on a cushioned, flat surface with knees flexed. A partner may assist by anchoring the feet to the ground. The hands may be placed by the side of the head, or the arms crossed over the chest, reaching out in front. The subject raises the trunk in a smooth motion, keeping the arms in position, curling up the desired amount. The trunk is lowered back to the floor so that the shoulder blades or upper back touch the floor.

Test procedure: Record the maximum number of sit ups in a certain time period, such as 30 seconds.

Comments: Make sure that the subject does not «bounce» off the floor – only correctly performed curl ups should be counted. The partner may assist by counting the number of repetitions.