Reference values for sit-to-stand tests in Colombian adults: a multicenter cross-sectional study

Submaximal tests such as the Sit-to-Stand Test (STS) in its three modalities are used to evaluate strength and aerobic capacity in people with respiratory, cardiovascular, and metabolic diseases. However, international reference values do not account for the genetic and environmental particularities of the Colombian population, underscoring the need to establish local references.

To establish sex and age specific reference values for the 5-repetition, 30-second, and 1-minute sit-to-stand tests in community-dwelling Colombian adults.

A cross-sectional study was conducted between 2023 and 2024 in Colombia, with the participation of healthy adults aged 18 to 80 years. Anthropometric characteristics and physical activity were assessed using the IPAQ questionnaire and the Sit-to-Stand Test (STS) at 1 minute, 30 seconds, and 5 repetitions. Normative percentiles were calculated by sex and age with a sample of 393 people.

The study included 393 participants (208 women and 185 men), with an average age of 44 years and a BMI of 25.9 ± 4.1. Age was negatively correlated with repetitions (R= 0.493; 60 sec and R= -0.497; 30 sec), height showed a positive correlation (R= 0.262; 60 sec). High BMI was associated with worse performance (R= -0.119; 60 sec, R= -0.153; 30 sec).

This study establishes reference values for STS testing in healthy adults in Colombia, accounting for age, sex, BMI, and physical activity.