• Cue the client to perform a controlled curl-up to lift the shoulder blades off the mat (approximately 30 degrees of trunk flexion), and then to lower the torso back down to momentarily rest the shoulders completely on the mat (the head does not need to touch the mat).
• Instruct the client to exhale on the way up and inhale on the way down. • Encourage the client to perform a few practice or warm-up repetitions prior to the test.
Test protocol and administration: • The client starts in the “down” position and begins on the trainer’s instruction. • Count each complete curl-up until the client reaches fatigue. • Make sure the client is not holding his or her breath during the test. • The client must not flex the cervical spine by curling the neck. • Record the client’s score on the testing form as the maximal number of curl-ups completed.
• Classify the client’s score using Table 8-19 or 8-20. For example, if a 27-year- old male client completes a total of 36 curl-ups, he would be classified in the upper range of “below average,” signifying that his abdominal endurance needs improvement.
Table 8-19 Norms for Curl-up Test (Men) Rating Excellent Good Above average Average Below average Poor Very poor
