Criterion Related Validity of the Sit-and-Reach Test

Abstract

The sit-and-reach test is often administered under the assumption that it gives a composite accounting of lumbar and hamstring flexibility. This study examined the criterion related validity of a commonly given sit-and-reach test and a modified sit-and-reach test that purportedly places less stress on lumbosacral structures. The subjects were 40 university students (20 males, 20 females). A sit-and-reach box was used for measuring performance; an inclinometer was used for measuring lumbosacral flexibility and hip joint (hamstring) flexibility. Although the criterion related validity of both sit-and-reach tests as measures of hamstring flexibility was supported (r = 0.70 to 0.76, p < 0.05), neither has criterion related validity as a field test of low-back flexion range of motion (r = 0.29 to 0.40, ns).