The reliability and validity of a chair sit-and-reach test as a measure ofhamstring flexibility in older adults

The purpose of this study was to examine the test-retest reliability and th e criterion validity of a newly developed chair sit-and-reach (CSR) test as a measure of hamstring flexibility in older adults. CSR performance was al so compared to sit-and-reach (SR) and back-saver sit-and-reach (BSR) measur es of hamstring flexibility. To estimate reliability, 76 men and women (M a ge = 70.5 years) performed the CSR on 2 different days, 2-5 days apart. In the validity phase of the study, scores of 80 men and women (M age = 74.2 y ears) were obtained on three field test measures of hamstring flexibility ( CSR, SR, and BSR) and on a criterion test (goniometer measurement of a pass ive straight-leg raise). Results indicate that the CSR has good intraclass test-retest reliability (R = .92 for men; r = .96 for women), and has a mod erate-to-good relationship with the criterion measure (r = .76 for men; r = .81 for women). The criterion validity of the CSR for the male and female participants is comparable to that of the SR (r = .74 and r = .71, respecti vely) and BSR (r = .70 and r = .71, respectively). Results indicate that th e CSR test produces reasonably accurate and stable measures of hamstring fl exibility. In addition, it appears that the CSR is a safe and socially acce ptable alternative to traditional floor sit-and-reach tests as a measure of hamstring flexibility in older adults.