Functional Fitness Testing for Older Adults Part 6: 2 Minute Step Test

Purpose

The two-minute stop test is used to assess aerobic endurance which is closely correlated with cardiorespiratory fitness which predicts risk of morbidity and mortality.

Instructions

This test is not conducted with a step. Instead, a point on the wall will be marked to indicate your stepping height for the test.

Your stepping height will be based on your leg length and will be measured by finding the midpoint between your kneecap and your hip bone. Record that distance and transfer that step paint to mark on the wall with a piece of tape. The test will begin by you stepping in place. You can use the wall for balance support.

You will start with your left leg and the test will be scored by the number of times your right leg reaches that stepping height in two minutes. Only reps that reach the stuffing height will be counted towards your score. If you can’t reach the proper height you can rest until proper form can be reached again.

Exercise Recommendations

Aerobic capacity tends to decline with age so aim for 30-60 minutes on 5 days a week or more of moderate aerobic activity such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming or water aerobics, or ergometers.

Greater levels of activity are encouraged in those who can do so safely (with medical clearance) for further health benefits.

Additionally, balance exercises such as one-legged stance, tandem stance, and balancing while reducing sensory input such as closing your eyes are recommended to help with the performance of this test.

Amanda Morch

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The Complete Series

Amanda introduces functional fitness testing, what it is, and why it's important to identify potential physical restrictions and/or limitations in order to improve your health and quality of life.

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Amanda discusses the 30 second chair stand test, its purpose, a demonstration of the test and exercise recommendations to improve performance.

Discover the 8 foot up and go test, its importance, a demonstration of the test and exercise recommendations to improve performance.

Amanda introduces the 2 minute step test, the purpose and demonstration of the test, and exercise recommendations to improve performance.

Discover the 6 minute walk test, its purpose, a demonstration and exercise recommendations to improve performance.

Amanda discusses the back scratch test, its purpose, a demonstration of the test and exercise recommendations to improve performance.

Explore the sit and reach test, what it is, the purpose, a demonstration and exercise recommendations to improve performance.

Have questions or comments about anything you learned in the FFT workshop? Leave us a comment below, or reach out to us directly to speak to one of our experienced personal trainers.

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