Measurement and evaluation of trunk forward flexibility

Abstract

Forward trunk flexibility in 39 students (24 men and 15 women) in a physical education faculty was studied using different body positions and testing methods. The test scores of a gravity goniometer and a linear measurement were compared. Trunk flexibility was estimated from components of mobility of the ankle, hip, and vertebral column in different body segment configurations. The flexibility of the vertebral column was calculated from the difference between the measurement of trunk forward flexion and hip flexion. Trunk forward flexion was higher measured in the sitting position than in the standing position measured by both methods. It was established that trunk forward flexibility was attributable to a composite of 60% hip flexion and 40% vertebral column flexibility. The determination of the range of the motion of each joint in trunk forward flexion can be useful in training or rehabilitation procedures.