Abstract
We researched the relationship between 3 balance tests, and what physical factors influence the functional reach test. The participants were 30 community dwelling elderly women and 33 college students. We measured height, weight, Functional Reach Test (FRT), Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT), One Foot Standing (OFS), trunk bending, 10 m walking speed, grip strength, toe flexion strength and ADL. We found that the FRT was not correlated with TUGT, OFS or 10 m walking speed, and FRT was not correlated with center of gravity sway in students. However, TUGT, OFS and 10 m walking speed were significantly related to each other. FRT was significantly related to age and height in the elderly women, and with height, weight and grip strength in students. We think the FRT evaluates not only balance but also other physical characteristics, such as physical suppleness. In a future study, we will evaluate some of those factors.
