Normative Times for the 5xSTS Test
The time it takes to complete the 5xSTS test varies significantly with age, sex, and overall fitness level. The test measures functional lower extremity strength and is a key indicator of mobility, particularly in older adults. Below is a table with normative data compiled from multiple studies, providing a clear comparison of performance across different demographics.
5xSTS Normative Data by Age and Sex
| Age (Years) | Mean Time (Men) | Mean Time (Women) |
|---|---|---|
| 20–29 | 6.0 ± 1.4 sec | 6.0 ± 1.4 sec |
| 30–39 | 6.1 ± 1.4 sec | 6.1 ± 1.4 sec |
| 40–49 | 7.6 ± 1.8 sec | 7.6 ± 1.8 sec |
| 50–59 | 7.7 ± 2.6 sec | 7.7 ± 2.6 sec |
| 60–69 | 8.4 ± 0.0 sec | 12.7 ± 1.8 sec |
| 70–79 | 11.6 ± 3.4 sec | 13.0 ± 4.8 sec |
| 80–89 | 16.7 ± 4.5 sec | 17.2 ± 5.5 sec |
| 90+ | 19.5 ± 2.3 sec | 22.9 ± 9.6 sec |
Note: Data from Bohannon et al. (2010), representing healthy community-dwelling adults.
How to Conduct the 5xSTS Test
To ensure your results are accurate, follow a standardized procedure for the test. All you need is a stopwatch and a sturdy chair without arms, approximately 16 inches (41 cm) in height.
- Start Position: Sit with your back straight against the back of the chair and place your arms folded across your chest. Ensure both feet are flat on the floor.
- Instruction: Have a timer ready. The evaluator should say, “Stand up and sit down five times as quickly as you can.” Timing begins the moment the command “Go” is given.
- Movement: Rise to a full standing position and return to the seated position five consecutive times, as fast as possible. Keep your arms folded throughout the test. Do not rest your back against the chair between repetitions.
- Finish: The timer stops the moment your body touches the chair for the fifth and final time.
- Record: Write down your total time to the nearest tenth of a second.
Interpreting Your Test Results
The 5xSTS is more than just a measure of speed; it's a valuable clinical tool for assessing mobility and fall risk, especially for older adults.
- Below Average: If your time is significantly slower than the mean for your age group, it could indicate lower-than-average leg strength and balance. This is an excellent opportunity to focus on strengthening exercises.
- Risk of Falls: For older adults (60+), a time of 15 seconds or more has been linked to an increased risk of recurrent falls. A result over 17 seconds is associated with a significantly higher risk of hospitalization. Any score exceeding these thresholds suggests the need for further assessment with a physical therapist or doctor.
- Excellent Performance: Completing the test in a time below the average for your age suggests strong lower body function and good balance. Even a modest improvement, like decreasing your time by 2.5 seconds, can lead to clinically significant functional improvements.
Comparison of 5xSTS with Other Functional Tests
The 5xSTS test is often used alongside or compared with other functional mobility tests to provide a comprehensive health assessment. Each test offers a slightly different insight into a person's physical capabilities.
| Feature | 5xSTS Test | 30-Second Chair Stand Test | Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Measurement | Time to complete 5 repetitions | Number of repetitions in 30 seconds | Time to stand, walk 10 feet, turn, walk back, and sit down |
| Focus | Functional lower extremity strength and transitional movement. | Lower body strength and endurance over a set period. | Balance, gait speed, and functional mobility. |
| Equipment | Standard chair, stopwatch. | Standard chair, stopwatch. | Standard chair, stopwatch, tape measure. |
| Ideal Population | Excellent for assessing change over time, especially after interventions. | Useful for assessing baseline strength and endurance. | A broader assessment, identifying those at risk of falling. |
| Key Outcome | Time in seconds for 5 repetitions. | Total number of repetitions. | Time in seconds for the full sequence. |
Factors Influencing Your Time
Several factors besides age and overall health can affect your 5xSTS performance:
- Chair Height: Using a chair that is lower than the standard 16-17 inches increases the difficulty of the movement and will result in a longer time.
- Body Mass Index (BMI): Research has found a positive association between a higher BMI and a longer 5xSTS time, meaning a higher BMI can slow you down.
- Physical Activity Level: Regular physical activity and higher fitness levels are linked to faster times.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like Parkinson's disease, vestibular disorders, stroke, and chronic diseases can significantly impact performance and increase completion time.
- Sex Differences: While less pronounced in younger years, a significant difference in times between men and women often emerges in older age groups, with women typically taking longer.
Conclusion
Knowing what is the normal time for 5 times sit to stand is an empowering first step in understanding your lower body functional strength and mobility. A faster time is generally indicative of better lower body strength and balance, especially in older adults where mobility is a key determinant of independence. While age and other variables like sex and medical history play a significant role, the test offers a reliable baseline measurement. Whether for personal fitness tracking or as part of a clinical assessment, comparing your results to established normative data is a practical way to monitor your functional capacity and take proactive steps to improve your health.
Note: The 5xSTS is a screening tool, not a diagnostic test. A healthcare professional can provide a full evaluation and personalized recommendations based on your test results and overall health.
