Using lunge measurements for baseline fitness testing

Context: The lunge is commonly used to assess lower extremity strength, flexibility, and balance, yet few objective data exist on it. Objectives: To determine the reliability of the lunge test, determine whether there are gender differences associated with it, and study the relationships between lunge distance and height and leg length. Design: Single-factor repeated measures. Setting: Laboratory. Participants: 57: 29 men, 28 women. Main Outcome Measures: Anterior lunge (AL) and lateral lunge (LL) distance, height, and leg length (cm). Results: LL distance (131.3 +/- 12.3) is significantly greater than AL distance (113.7 +/- 17.2) in men and in women (LL 113.6 +/-10.5, AL 96.6 +/- 11.1). There was no significant correlation for height or leg length to any lunge measurement in men or women. Conclusion: The lunge can be used as a reliable test to measure lower extremity function. Right- and left-leg lunge distances should not differ, and LL will always be greater than AL.