HOW IS THE TRUNK LIFT ASSESSMENT PERFORMED?

The trunk lift test is easy to set-up and administer. The test administrator will set up mats in the gymnasium before class. The other materials needed will be 12 or 15 inch rulers, and pennies (Amounts vary depending on class size). The rulers can be made out of a heavy stock paper, poster board, or card board. This will allow for students to make a mark on the ruler, as well as be cost effective. The pennies will be used as a focus marker, for students to keep their eyes on during the test. The students will be split up into pairs, one student will perform the test, the other will measure and record the scores. The performer will lie face down on the mat (prone position). Their hands should be placed under their thighs and their toes should be pointed. The penny/ marker will be placed in line with the students eyes. During the movement phase the students must maintain focus on the marker to avoid looking straight. The student will lift the upper body off the floor in a slow, controlled manner, while maintaining their focus on the marker. Students should be informed to lift no higher than 12 inches to avoid injury. The students should keep their head straight, in alignment with the spine. The position should be held long enough for their partner to measure. The partner will measure the distance from the floor to the bottom of the performers chin. The ruler should be kept at least an inch from the performers face. After the measurement, the student will go back to the starting position and perform a second trial. The highest of the two scores should be recorded. Anything recorded as higher than 12 inches should be recorded as 12 inches.

WHY IS THE TRUNK LIFT ASSESSMENT IMPORTANT?

The trunk lift assessment is important due to it's correlation with lower back health. The muscles that are used for the test (Hamstrings, Back extensors, and abdomen) all work together to maintain posture and low back health. One of the biggest complaints of adults is lower back pain. There are many things that can cause lower back pain, however, one of the most important reasons is a lack of core maintenance. Often, individuals fail to exercise their core muscles, or leave out some of the important core muscles. For example, doing abdominal exercises is a great core workout. But what about the lower back muscles? it is very important to perform exercises that will help maintain healthy core muscles throughout life. This test will help assess the strength and flexibility of the core, as well as give students an idea of how healthy they are, regarding core health. 

WHAT IS THE EVALUATION CRITERION FOR THE TEST?

Each student will receive a worksheet that has the criteria for the assessment. The worksheet covers the critical components of the test, and lists the passing scores for specific grade levels. As long as students show up to class prepared, and participate in the assessment, they will receive credit. Students who meet the desired score will receive extra credit. The results will simply be recorded as Satisfactory or Needs Improvement.  Below is a copy of the sheet that all students will receive. It is important to remind your students that they should NOT lift over the 12 inch mark. Lifting beyond the 12 inch mark could lead to injury.

Trunk Lift Test

Assessment Task Sheet

Why is this test important?  The trunk lift test is extremely important, because of its relationship to lower back health. The test measures strength and flexibility in the muscles of the back, abdomen and hamstrings. Trunk extensor strength and flexibility is an important aspect of maintaining a healthy back.

Test Objective: To slowly lift the upper body off the floor, NO MORE THAN 12 INCHES, using the muscles of the back. Participant should hold the position for measurement.

Circle “Yes” if performed.

Circle “No” if not performed.

1. Face down with hands tucked under quads.

YES                        NO

2. Eyes stay down, looking at the marker/ penny.

YES                        NO

3. Lifts body up, NO MORE THAN 12 INCHES, in a slow and controlled manner.

YES                        NO

4. Perform 2 trials.

YES                        NO

5.  6 TO 12 Inches = Passing for both boys and girls K-8 

      9 TO 12 Inches = Passing for High School Students.

YES                        NO

Inches Attained:___________________________

Performers Name:____________________________________

Partner’s Name:_______________________________________