Strength Endurance Test: Push Up

The push-up test is a simple fitness test used to evaluate upper body strength and endurance. Here is a step-by-step procedure for performing the test:

Equipment needed:

• Stopwatch
• Flat surface
• Exercise mat (optional)

Procedure:

1. Begin by assuming the push-up position, with your hands shoulder-width apart, arms extended, and feet together.
2. Your body should form a straight line from your shoulders to your ankles.
3. Lower your body until your chest touches the ground, keeping your elbows close to your sides.
4. Push yourself back up to the starting position, straightening your arms fully.
5. Repeat the push-up as many times as possible without pausing or resting in the starting position.
6. The test is complete when you can no longer maintain proper form or complete a full push-up.

Scoring:

The number of push-ups completed in a row before stopping is recorded as the score. The norms for push-up scores depend on age and gender, and can vary widely.

Note: If you are new to exercise or have any medical concerns, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before performing the push-up test or any other physical activity. Additionally, it is important to warm up properly and use correct form to avoid injury during the test.

Here are the average scores for different age groups and genders:

Age 20-29:

• Men: 35-44 push-ups
• Women: 20-29 push-ups

Age 30-39:

• Men: 24-34 push-ups
• Women: 10-19 push-ups

Age 40-49:

• Men: 20-29 push-ups
• Women: 8-14 push-ups

Age 50-59:

• Men: 15-24 push-ups
• Women: 5-10 push-ups

Age 60+:

• Men: 10-19 push-ups
• Women: 3-5 push-ups

It is important to note that these are just average scores, and individual performance can vary widely depending on factors such as fitness level, body composition, and exercise experience. Additionally, the norms may differ slightly based on the specific test protocol used, such as the hand placement, speed, and range of motion.

References:

1. Sargent, D. A. (1921). The physical test of a man. American Physical Education Review, 26(3), 188-194.
2. Heyward, V. H., & Stolarczyk, L. M. (1996). Applied body composition assessment. Human Kinetics.
3. American College of Sports Medicine. (2018). ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription. Wolters Kluwer.
4. Knapik, J. J., Sharp, M. A., Canham-Chervak, M., Hauret, K., Patton, J. F., Jones, B. H., & Darakjy, S. (2016). Risk factors for training-related injuries among men and women in basic combat training. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 48(2), 249-258.
5. McCall, P. (2016). ACSM's Resources for the Personal Trainer (5th ed.). Wolters Kluwer.