Performance tests for the posterior chain: Comparison of three different assessment methods
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: OBJECTIVES: Comparison of three performance tests evaluating the posterior chain and evaluation whether they can be used interchangeably: Isokinetic single joint hamstring strength at 60°/s, Bunkie Test, and standing 90:20 Isometric Posterior Chain Test (IPCT). DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. PARTICIPANTS: 29 (16 females; 13 males) healthy participants (age: 25.7 ± 5.5 years; weight: 70.5 ± 14 kg; height: 174 ± 8.4 cm). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Strength/performance of hamstrings/posterior chain. RESULTS: Although all three tests measure the performance of muscles/structures of the posterior chain, they differ regarding validity, reliability and objectivity, as well as cost- and time-effectiveness. In terms of strength of the posterior chain, the IPCT delivers high agreement with isokinetic measurements of hamstring strength. The Bunkie Test, however, does not show any interaction with either isokinetic measurements or the IPCT. Neither of the test comparisons show any agreement in the detection of limb-asymmetries. CONCLUSION: In terms of strength measurement of the hamstrings, the IPCT can be used as an alternative to isokinetic measurements. Limb asymmetries should not be assessed with either the IPCT or the Bunkie Test when focusing on bare knee flexion strength. The aforementioned tests cannot - or only partially - be used interchangeably and should instead be used in addition to each other.
Institutions: Technical University of Munich, University of Graz
Language: English
Subfield: Biomedical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,070
OpenAlex ID: W4410487708