Stick Lengthwise Balance Test
The Stick Lengthwise Balance Test is a simple test of balance using just a stick and stopwatch. The participant is required to stand the ball of both feet on the stick for as long as possible.
purpose: this test evaluates the ability to maintain a stable equilibrium.
equipment required: stick measuring 1 × 1 × 12 inches (2.54 × 2.54 × 30.5 cm), stopwatch, recording sheets.
pre-test: Explain the test procedures to the subject. Perform screening of health risks and obtain informed consent. Prepare forms and record basic information such as age, height, body weight, gender, test conditions. Perform an appropriate warm-up. See more details of pre-test procedures.
procedure: the subject stands side-on to the stick with the ball of both feet on the stick, for as long as possible. The stopwatch is started as the heel is raised from the floor. Several practice attempts should be allowed.
scoring: the total time balanced on the stick is recorded. The timing is stopped when the heels or any other part of the body touches the ground, or the subject steps off the stick.
variations: this test can be made more difficult by raising the stick above the floor.
advantages: this test is simple and easy to perform.
disadvantages: the balance stick needs to be specifically made for this test.
Similar Tests
- Stork Balance Test — stand on the toes of one leg for as long as possible with the free leg resting on the inside of the opposite knee
- One Leg Stand — the US sobriety test, stand with one foot off the ground for 30 seconds
- Flamingo Balance Test — stand on one leg while balancing on a beam.
- Standing Balance Test — stand on one leg for as long as possible.
Related Pages
- Other balance tests
- The balance beam gymnastics event
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