Forget high-tech gadgets! Your ability to sit down and stand back up from the floor might say a lot about your health and longevity.
A recent study published in The European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that people who could perform this “sitting-rising test” without using their hands or knees had a significantly lower risk of early death from natural or heart-related causes.
Researchers from Brazil’s Exercise Medicine Clinic (CLINIMEX) evaluated over 4,000 adults aged 46 to 75, asking them to sit cross-legged on the floor and rise without external support.
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Participants were scored out of 10, with points deducted each time they used a hand, knee, or were unsteady.
Over a period of 12 years, the researchers found that those with a perfect 10 had a mortality rate of just 3.7%, while those scoring 4 or below had a death rate over 42%. The study also showed that those with the lowest scores had a nearly 300% higher risk of dying from natural causes and were five times more likely to die from cardiovascular issues.
Researchers say the SRT is a quick, low-cost tool that provides helpful advice during routine health assessments. Unlike other fitness tests that isolate one ability or simulate unrealistic scenarios, the sitting-rising test reflects everyday functional movement, making it practical and predictive across all age groups.
Experts say low scores can be improved through targeted training in areas like balance, flexibility, muscle power, and weight management.
