Nat on getting up from a chair hands free

Remember in 2020 when the test to sit on the floor and get up without using your hands was everywhere? It was touted as a sure fire way to measure your health and fitness, especially if you are a senior.

It always seemed to me that it was a test you could train to improve results. Would that training correlate to better healthspan or a longer life? I was never convinced.

Fast forward to last week and I was chatting with Dad. He was marveling at a woman my age getting up from a chair without using her hands.

I laughed and showed him that I too could stand up and sit down into a chair without using my hands.

My adult kids chimed in, sharing stories of people who flop down rather than descending under control. It’s not something one always has awareness of.

I shared that two years ago, when my knee was injured, I needed help getting up off the couch.

I would use the arm of the couch to help launch myself. It was painful and humbling.

Today I can lower myself well past 90 degrees to sit and get back up without assistance from others or using my hands. I credit good physiotherapy, deadlifts and squats for helping me regain the necessary leg and core strength .

I recounted this story with my physiotherapist, Emily, and we spoke about both “tests”.

Emily shared that in evaluating seniors careful attention was paid to how they sit down or stand up from a chair.

It’s a key activity in daily living and crucial in preventing falls, especially in the bathroom.

I found this great resource about this exercise. Balance Program Sit to Stand No Hands on Chair

So whether getting off the toilet or out of your favourite chair, spare a thought for the technique you use. It’s really important!

If you aren’t satisfied with how your sitting and standing are going talk to your primary care provider for resources, tips and tricks.