Topend Sports Logo

90/90 or Active Knee Extension (AKE) Hamstring Flexibility Test

The 90/90 test, also known as the Active Knee Extension (AKE) Hamstring Flexibility Test, measures hamstring flexibility, particularly when the hip is flexed.



purpose: to assess the range of active knee extension in a position of hip flexion, as required in running and kicking.

equipment required: goniometer with extended arms and spirit level (optional), and a firm table.

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 and test conditions. See more details of pre-test procedures.

procedure: The subject lies supine, head back and arms across the chest. The hip is passively flexed until the thigh is vertical (use a spirit level if available). Maintain this thigh position throughout the test, with the opposite leg in a fully extended position. The foot of the leg being tested is kept relaxed, while the leg is actively straightened until the point when the thigh begins to move from the vertical position. The thigh angle at this point is recorded.

measurement: measure the minimum angle of knee flexion with the thigh in the vertical position. The measurement unit is degrees. If the leg is able to be fully straightened, the angle would be recorded as 0. Any degree of flexion will be recorded as a positive number, e.g. 10, 20 degrees etc. In cases where the full knee extension is achieved without thigh movement, the knee is flexed and the thigh is moved to 30 degrees past the vertical position, and the knee again straightened. The angle of knee flexion at which the thigh begins to move is again recorded.



Similar Tests

Related Pages

send us a comment Any comments, suggestions, or corrections? Please let us know.

Testing Extra

We have over 400 fitness tests listed, so it's not easy to choose the best one to use. You should consider the validity, reliability, costs and ease of use for each test. Use our testing guide to conducting, recording, and interpreting fitness tests. Any questions, please ask or search for your answer. To keep up with the latest in sport science and this website, subscribe to our newsletter. We are also on facebook and twitter.

 → How to Cite