One Minute Abdominal Crunch Test

The abdominal crunch test measures the dynamic endurance of the abdominal musculature. The one minute abdominal crunch test has become the standard because it minimizes use of the hip flexors and strain on the neck. The object of this test is to execute as many crunches, using correct form, as possible in one minute.

Starting Position

The subject should lie flat on their back with both knees bent and feet flat on floor. Arms should be fully extended by the side, palms down, and fingers extended. A piece of masking tape should be placed perpendicular to the fingertips of each hand so that the fingertips are at the front edge of the tape. Another piece of tape should be placed parallel to and three inches in front of the tape at the fingertips.

Execution of Test

To begin the test the technician should hold the subjects feet and give a “go” signal and begin the stop watch. The subject must move both hands along the floor a distance of three inches (by flexing the trunk) until they reach the second strips of tape. The shoulder blades should contact the floor on each repetition. The technician should count (only those correctly done), motivate, and keep track of time during this test. Crunches should not be counted for improper use of arms (i.e. coming off floor, bending elbows), use of momentum, or jerky motions.

Results: Compare to peer group using norm table.

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