Videoconference-Based Physical Performance Tests: Reliability and Feasibility Study

Validated tools to evaluate physical performance remotely with real-time supervision are lacking. We assessed test-retest and inter-rater reliability, as well as the feasibility of carrying out the five-repetition sit-to-stand (5RSTS), kneeling push-up (KPU) and Shirado-Ito trunk flexor endurance (SIF) tests by 1:1 real-time videoconference. We also evaluated the correlation of these tests with measures of self-reported physical fitness, physical activity, health state and pain. A total of 96 healthy adults participated in the study (18-65 years). Relative and absolute reliabilities were assessed with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and standard error of measurement (SEM), respectively. Feasibility outcomes included testing duration, participant acceptability (1-5 Likert scale) and presence of adverse events. Self-reported measures were obtained with validated online questionnaires, and correlations were analyzed with Pearson's partial correlation coefficients controlling for age. ICCs were excellent (>0.9), and SEMs were generally low (2.43-16.21%). The mean duration of all tests was <5 min, mean acceptability was >= 4.5, and adverse events were few. The KPU showed statistically significant correlations with various self-reported measures (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the 5RSTS, KPU and SIF were reliable and feasible when conducted by 1:1 real-time videoconference. This study provides a tool that could be logistically and economically advantageous.

Automated summary

This study assessed the feasibility and reliability of using real-time videoconference for remote evaluation of physical performance. The results showed that this method was both reliable and feasible, and demonstrated correlations with self-reported measures of physical fitness, physical activity, health state, and pain.