What does the chair sit and reach test measure?

The chair sit and reach test specifically measures lower body flexibility, particularly in the hamstrings and lower back. During the test, a participant sits on the edge of a chair and reaches towards their toes while keeping their legs extended. The distance reached serves as an indicator of flexibility in those muscle groups, which is vital for maintaining mobility and functional independence, especially among older adults. This flexibility is crucial for activities such as bending down, standing up from a seated position, and overall agility in daily life.

This differentiation is essential because other tests, such as those assessing upper body flexibility or core stability, focus on different muscle groups and physical capabilities, thereby catering to various aspects of physical fitness. Each of these areas is important for overall health, but they measure distinctly different components of physical ability.