Biering-Sorensen Test

The Biering-Sorensen test is used for evaluating the isometric endurance of the hip and back extensor muscles. It is a great tool for predicting if a patient/client is at risk for nonspecific lower back pain. This can also act as an important training tool before someone begins a program that involves deadlifting. The two things that you will need for this test are a timer and a GHD machine, which can be found in most gyms. Begin by having the person being tested get on the GHD machine in a horizontal prone position with their arms crossed over the chest, chin tucked, and the upper edge of the iliac crest on the pad. Make sure the person contracts their glutes and abdominal muscles to help maintain a neutral spine. Once they are in this full position, start the timer and see how long they can hold it. Stop the timer and end the test if the shoulders drop, they no longer can hold the position, or when 240s (4min) has been reached. Refer to the table below to see what category they fall in.

– Jeff Spraker

Demoulin, C., Vanderthommen, M., Duysens, C., & Crielaard, J. M. (2006). Spinal muscle evaluation using the Sorensen test: a critical appraisal of the literature. Joint Bone Spine, 73(1), 43-50.