What is The Chair Fitness Test?

There has been recent re-publication of The Chair Fitness Test in the press so, what is it all about? This is a very simple test to assess strength and determine your fitness for your age. Strength is an indicator of fitness. It is well known that as we age we lose strength. The test determines how long it takes you to stand up and sit down from a chair. It tests the strength of the two biggest muscles in the body the quadriceps (front of thighs) and the gluteals (buttocks).

How do I perform the test?

You simply need a stable chair without arms and a stopwatch or timer.

Stand with your arms crossed over your chest and time how long you take to stand up and sit down ten times. The time it takes is your result. The expected times for gender and age are below.

Men’s Expected Times

Under 35 years: 10 seconds

35-55 years: 13 seconds

Over 55 years: 18 seconds

Women’s Expected Times

Under 35 years: 12 seconds

35 -55 years: 15 seconds

Over 55 Years: 19 seconds

If you find that pain or stiffness is slowing you down it may be wise to seek the advice of your GP or physiotherapist to see if we can get you back on track to regain your strength and improve your fitness, Victoria at ThamesPhysio would be very happy to discuss any concerns that you have.