This is one of many tests of abdominal muscle strength. It is a simple test to conduct requiring minimal equipment. See also the similar 7-Stage Abdominal Strength Test.

Purpose: The 4 stage sit up test measures lower back and abdominal strength, which is important in for core stability.

Equipment Required: Flat surface, recording sheet and pen

Procedure: This is a simple test where you are required to do four forms of sit ups. The subject attempts to perform one sit-up as described for each level, with either the feet held by an assistant or not, and with the legs straight or not. Several attempts can be made for each level, with the technique scored using the criteria below. The four levels are as follows:

Scoring: Use the criteria in the following table to give a score out of four for each sit up. Add the score for all four sit-up levels for a total score out of 16.

Score	Criteria
0	Cannot perform
1	Difficulty performing, jerky motion, feet leave the floor
2	Uses a lot of momentum to overcome 45 degrees
3	Performs with slight pause in the mid area of the sit-up
4	No difficulty

Advantage: Moderate sized groups can be tested at once, with minimal equipment required.

Disadvantage: Scoring is subjective, and therefore results cannot be easily compared between groups.