Article

This study evaluated the relationship of functional field tests to
traditional laboratory strength tests in 40 frail, older adults with chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease. DESIGN: Participants completed two trials of upper
(chest press) and lower (leg press) body maximal strength (maximal weight lifted
one time) testing and one trial of functional fitness testing (Arm Curl, Lift and
Reach, Chair Stand, Up and Go). The maximal weight lifted one-time values from
both trials were compared with functional fitness test values to identify valid
surrogates. RESULTS: Among upper-body functional fitness tests, the Arm Curl had
a moderately strong relationship to chest press (trial 1: r = 0.55, P = 0.01;
trial 2: r = 0.56, P = 0.01) whereas the Lift and Reach did not. Among lower-body
functional fitness tests, the Chair Stand had a fairly strong relationship to leg
press (trial 1: r = 0.46, P = 0.01; trial 2: r = 0.38, P = 0.05), but the Up and
Go did not. CONCLUSIONS: Only the Arm Curl and Chair Stand tests were valid
surrogates. Although multiple field tests to measure strength in a clinical
setting may be desirable, these data support limiting functional testing to the
Arm Curl for upper-body and the Chair Stand for lower-body strength assessment.

Langue : ANGLAIS