Core Muscle Strength & Stability 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 the factors influencing the results.

Objective

The Core Muscle Strength & Stability Test aims to monitor the development of the athlete's abdominal and lower back muscles.

Required Resources

To conduct this test, you will require:

Flat non-slip surface
Mat
Stopwatch
Assistant

How to conduct the test

The assistant is responsible for instructing the athlete as to the position to assume at the appropriate stage. Throughout the test, the back, neck and head should be maintained in the posture as per figure below. If the athlete is unable to hold this position, then the test is to be stopped.

Stage 1 The athlete warms up for 10 minutes The athlete, using the mat to support their elbows and arms, assumes the Start Position Once the athlete is in the correct position, the assistant starts the stopwatch The athlete is to hold this position for 60 seconds
Stage 2 The athlete lifts their right arm off the ground and extends it out in front of them parallel with the ground The athlete is to hold this position for 15 seconds
Stage 3 The athlete returns to the Start Position, lifts the left arm off the ground and extends it out in front of them parallel to the ground The athlete is to hold this position for 15 seconds
Stage 4 The athlete returns to the Start Position, lifts the right leg off the ground and extends it out behind them parallel to the ground The athlete is to hold this position for 15 seconds
Stage 5 The athlete returns to the Start Position, lifts the left leg off the ground and extends it out behind them parallel to the ground The athlete is to hold this position for 15 seconds
Stage 6 The athlete returns to the Start Position, lifts the left leg and right arm off the ground and extends them out parallel with the ground The athlete is to hold this position for 15 seconds
Stage 7 The athlete returns to the Start Position, lifts the right leg and left arm off the ground and extends them out parallel with the ground The athlete is to hold this position for 15 seconds
Stage 8 The athlete returns to the Start Position The athlete is to hold this position for 30 seconds
Stage 9 End of test

The assistant records the stage at which the athlete is unable to maintain the correct body position or is unable to continue with the test.

Assessment

I have been unable to locate any normative data for this test.

Analysis

The result is analysed by comparing it with the results of previous tests. It is expected that the analysis would indicate an improvement with appropriate training between each test.

If the athlete can complete this test, it indicates they have good core strength. If they cannot complete the test, repeat the routine 3 or 4 times a week until they can.

If core strength is weak, the torso will move unnecessarily during motion and waste energy. Good core strength indicates that the athlete can move with high efficiency.

Target Group

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

Reliability

Test reliability refers to the degree to which a test is consistent and stable in measuring what it is intended to 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 a variety of 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 the effect of training on the athlete's physical development.

Advantages

No 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. (2002) Core Muscle Strength and Stability Test [WWW] Available from: https://www.brianmac.co.uk/coretest.htm [Accessed