The Single-Leg Wall Squat Test: An Assessment of Functional Lower Extremity Endurance in University Students.

Background: The single-leg wall squat (SLWS) has the potential to be used as a functional test to assess lower extremity muscular endurance. While previous research has explored its muscular activation patterns, its relationship with isolated muscle strength and potential sex-specific responses remains under-investigated.

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the descriptive statistics of the SLWS and the correlation between handheld dynamometry (HHD) measures of hip and knee strength and SLWS test performance. Secondary aims included the investigation of potential sex differences in SLWS test performance and associated physiological responses.

Study design: Observational cohort.

Methods: Thirty healthy university students (13 female, 17 male) aged 18-30 years participated. Maximal isometric strength of the dominant leg's hip extensors, abductors, and knee extensors was measured using HHD. Participants then performed a SLWS test on the dominant leg to volitional failure, with repetitions counted and perceived exertion (RPE) assessed. Heart rate was monitored and reasons for test termination were recorded. Descriptive statistics were calculated for all measures. Pearson correlations assessed relationships between isometric strength and single-leg wall squat repetitions, while independent samples t-tests compared measures between sexes.

Results: Average SLWS test performance was 76.2 ± 35.2 repetitions. Average heart rate and RPE post-SLWS were 146.3 ± 17.1 bpm and 8.3 ± 1.2 out of 10, respectively. SLWS test performance was not significantly correlated with HHD measures. No significant sex differences were observed in SLWS performance, although they were observed for HHD measures and RPE. Gluteus maximus fatigue was the most commonly reported reason for test termination (41.4%).

Conclusion: The SLWS test demonstrated potential as a functional endurance assessment, eliciting moderate-to-high physiological strain. However, performance did not correlate with isolated muscle strength, suggesting the test captures a complex interplay of factors beyond isolated muscle function. No sex differences were observed in SLWS performance. Further research is needed to explore the test's validity and sensitivity to changes in lower extremity function.

Level of evidence: 3.