Sittostand

The sit-to-stand, sometimes written sit-to-stand or sit-to-stand task, is the movement of rising from a seated position to an upright standing posture. It is a fundamental daily activity and a core measure of functional mobility in clinical and everyday settings.

Biomechanics and approach: The movement typically starts with a forward lean of the trunk to shift the body’s center of mass over the base of support, followed by knee and hip extension to achieve an upright stance. The arms may be used to push off the seat, and some individuals rely on momentum to help rise. Chair height, seat depth, and lower-limb strength and flexibility influence difficulty and strategy.

Assessment and clinical relevance: Sit-to-stand performance reflects lower-limb strength, balance, coordination, and functional independence. Common tests include the five-repetition sit-to-stand test and the 30-second or 1-minute sit-to-stand test, with normative values varying by age and sex. Poor performance is associated with greater risk of disability, frailty, and falls in older adults.

Interventions and practice: Rehabilitation programs often emphasize strengthening of the quadriceps and hip extensors, balance training, and motor learning through cueing and practice. Progressions may start with higher chairs or using arms for support and advance to lower seats and unsupported rises, coupled with progressive resistance exercises and functional training.

Populations: The sit-to-stand is a key task in older adults, stroke survivors, individuals with Parkinson’s disease, hip or knee osteoarthritis, spinal cord injury, and post-operative rehabilitation programs.