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Isometric Push-Up Hold Test

The Isometric Push-Up Hold Test requires the participants to hold a lowered 'down' push-up position for as long as possible. This is different from the Brockport assessment Isometric Push-Up Test in which the 'up' position is held. See the similar fitness tests the Plank Fitness Test and Side Ramp Tests. There are also several other push-up tests.



test purpose: to measure maximum strength endurance of the chest and arm muscles, as well as core body strength.

equipment required: flat and clean surface, stopwatch, recording sheets, pen.

pre-test: Explain the test procedures to the subject, and demonstrate the correct technique. Perform screening of health risks and obtain informed consent. Prepare forms and record basic information such as age, height, body weight, gender and test conditions. Perform a standard warm-up. See more details of pre-test procedures.

procedure: The participant assumes the standard starting position for a push-up — the hands directly below the shoulders, the arms extended, the whole body in a straight line, and the toes touching the floor or mat. The chest is lowered until the arms are at a right angle (90 degrees), the stopwatch is started, and the body is held in this position for as long as possible. The test ends as soon as the subject is unable to maintain the correct position (any movements such as bending, sagging, or swaying).

isometric push up fitness test

scoring: record the length of time the correct position was held, to the nearest second.

target population: this test is used by those wanting to improve their push-up strength. It is not a commonly used test.

notes: Breath holding should be avoided - it should be emphasised to continuously breathe throughout the test.



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