Timed Up-and-Go (TUG) Test
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Time someone rising from a chair, walking 3 m, turning, returning, and sitting; longer times indicate impaired mobility and higher fall risk in older adults.
Detail
The Timed Up-and-Go (TUG) is a quick, validated functional-mobility test, used heavily for fall-risk screening in older adults. It captures sit-to-stand strength, gait, turning, and dynamic balance in one timed task.
Protocol: the person sits in a standard armchair (~46 cm seat height), wearing usual footwear and any usual walking aid. On "go," they stand, walk 3 m (10 ft) at a comfortable pace, turn around, walk back, and sit down. Time from "go" to seated. Allow one practice trial; record the timed trial (seconds).
Interpretation (community-dwelling older adults): (cutoffs vary by population/study)
- ≤ 10 s — normal mobility.
- ~12–14 s and above — commonly cited cut-point for increased fall risk; ≥ 13.5 s is a frequently used threshold warranting further assessment.
- Higher times (e.g., >20–30 s) indicate substantial mobility impairment / dependence.
The TUG is simple, needs only a chair, tape measure, and stopwatch, and pairs well with grip strength and single-leg stance in a senior battery.
Key facts
- Timed task: stand → walk 3 m → turn → return → sit, comfortable pace, usual aids/footwear.
- ≤10 s normal; ~12–14 s / ≥13.5 s flags increased fall risk; >20–30 s marked impairment.
- Validated fall-risk screen for community-dwelling older adults.
- Minimal equipment: chair (~46 cm), 3 m course, stopwatch.
Connections
- Single-Leg Stance (Balance) Test — static-balance companion.
- Y-Balance Test — dynamic-balance alternative.
- Grip Strength (Handgrip Dynamometry) — paired strength marker in senior batteries.
- Seniors (Redirect → Older Adults) / Fall Prevention for Older Adults (Overview) — application.
Sources
Keep this lesson, or ask how it applies to you.
Educational content only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional for individualized guidance, especially around injury, pregnancy, or medical conditions.