Tuesday 2 April 2019

"Sit and Stand Test" - for a better life - try it yourself

This is quite a tough one, especially for the older generation and those with physical impairments.

Stand upright and, without using anything to assist you (it is not easy), lower yourself to a sitting position on the floor.  Now, if you thought that was hard, you need to stand back up. However, if you can, try not to use your hands, knees, the sides of your legs, or your forearms.  We told you it was tough!!!.
Starting with a score of ten points, subtract a point for putting any of those on the floor, and take away another point for putting a hand on your knee.

Good fitness:              8-10 points
Average                      4-7 points
Needs improvement   3 or less points

What does this prove?
This covers a multitude of tasks, including your flexibility, measuring your balancing skills, looking at your muscle strength, and ultimately it is said to be a guide to expected life expectancy!! 
Scientists writing in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found those who scored under eight were twice as likely to die within the next six years compared to those who scored higher.  Those who scored three or fewer points were ,ore than five times as likely to die within six years compared to those who scored more than eight points.
(It does not explain the age of people - which has to be a factor too - or their size and shapes - it is obvious to anyone that those who are overweight or obese would struggle more than those of ideal weight, and this can also be a factor in early death).

How can I improve?
Try Yoga. Not only does this exercise regime improve your flexibility and balance, but many of the moves help to strengthen weaker muscles while also challenging your mind to concentrate on the movement of your body. Building core strength is also key.

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