Sit-Ups Test to Assess Abdominal Muscle Endurance. The purpose of this test is to assess the progress of the athlete's abdominal muscles.
Needed sources
To undertake this test you will require:
• Flat surface
• Mat
• Partner to hold the feet.
How to conduct the test
The sit-ups test is conducted as follows:
• Lie on the mat with the knees bent, feet flat on the floor and the arms folded across the chest
• Start each sit up with back on the floor.
• Raise yourself to the 90-degree position and then return to the floor
• The feet can be held by a partner
• Record the number of sits up completed in 30 seconds.
Analysis
Analysis of the result is by comparing it with the results of previous tests. It is expected that, with appropriate training between each test, the analysis would indicate an improvement.
Normative data for the sit-ups test
The following are national norms for 16 to 19-year-olds.
Table reference: Davis B. et al; Physical Education and the Study of Sport; 2000
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 strict the test is conducted and the individual's level of motivation to perform the test.
Validity
There are published tables to relate results to the potential level of fitness and the correlation is high.