Differences in the Timed Up and Go Test under different measurement conditions in young healthy adults

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to verify whether Timed Up and Go (TUG) test measurements differed according to the seat height of the chair, presence or absence of armrests, and measurement location in young healthy adults, and to clarify the flexibility of the TUG settings. [Participants and Methods] Fifty-nine young healthy males and females participated in this study. The TUG test was performed under several conditions. Eight measurements were obtained at both the usual walking speed and the individual’s fastest walking speed. [Results] There were no significant differences in TUG test measurements according to variation in seat height, different measurement locations, with and without the use of armrests, or at the usual walking speed or the fastest walking speed. [Conclusion] In young healthy adults, TUG test measurements were unaffected by differences in chair height, use of armrests, or the location of the measurement. If TUG measurements are found to differ according to these variables, it is necessary to consider the influence of the individual’s ability rather than the measurement method.