Criterion-related validity of four clinical tests used to measure hamstring flexibility in professional futsal players

ObjectiveTo examine the criterion related validity of the sit-and-reach test (SR), toe touch test (TT), modified sit-and-reach test (MSR) and back-saver sit-and-reach test (BSSR) for estimating hamstring flexibility measured through the passive straight leg raise test (PSLR) in professional futsal players.DesignCorrelation laboratory study.SettingControlled laboratory environment.ParticipantsOne hundred and three futsal players (55 males age 26 ± 4 years, 48 females age 23 ± 5 years).Main outcome measuresTwo trials of SR, TT, MSR, BSSR (left and right) and PSLR right and left (hamstring criterion measure) in a randomized order.ResultsRegression analysis was performed to examine the association of SR, TT, MSR and BSSR with PSLR in both males and females separately. In males, only MSR test had moderate association criterion with PSLR (R2 = 0.57). In females, SR (R2 = 0.86), TT (R2 = 0.85), MSR (R2 = 0.53) and average BSSR (R2 = 0.82) were associated with PSLR.ConclusionsSR, TT, MSR and BSSR had moderate criterion related validity for estimating hamstring flexibility in female but not male professional futsal players. The authors recommend that researchers, clinicians, and physical therapists adopt one angular test as a measure of hamstring muscle length in futsal players.