What aspect of fitness is measured by a sit-and-reach test?

The sit-and-reach test specifically measures flexibility, particularly in the lower back and hamstrings. During this test, an individual sits on the floor with their legs extended and reaches forward towards their toes. The distance reached is an indicator of how flexible the muscles and joints are in the posterior chain. Flexibility is a critical component of overall fitness, as it can affect performance in various physical activities and help with injury prevention.

Endurance, strength, and power are distinct aspects of fitness that focus on the ability to sustain physical activity over time, generate force, and exert force rapidly, respectively. These components do not involve the specific joint range of motion that the sit-and-reach test assesses, thereby clarifying why flexibility is the primary focus of this particular assessment.