This study aims to investigate the reliability and validity of practical performance-based physical function tests in individuals with obesity. Functional limitations such as reduced walking ability, impaired balance, and decreased lower extremity strength are common in people with obesity and may negatively affect daily activities and quality of life. Participants will complete several commonly used clinical functional tests, including the 1-Minute Stair Climbing Test, 40-Meter Fast-Paced Walk Test, 2-Minute Walk Test, Timed Up and Go Test, and 30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test. In addition, cardiopulmonary exercise testing, balance assessment, and knee extensor muscle strength measurements will be performed. The study will evaluate whether these simple and clinically applicable tests provide reliable results over repeated measurements and whether they are associated with objective indicators of physical function such as maximal oxygen consumption (VO₂max), balance performance, and muscle strength. The findings may help clinicians use practical and cost-effective tools to assess physical function in individuals with obesity.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
55
Participants will undergo a series of standardized performance-based physical function assessments, including the 1-Minute Stair Climbing Test, 40-Meter Fast-Paced Walk Test, 2-Minute Walk Test, Timed Up and Go Test, and 30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test. Each test will be performed twice with standardized rest intervals between assessments. To evaluate test-retest reliability, the same functional tests will be repeated 5-7 days later under identical conditions and in the same order. In addition to functional testing, participants will complete cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) using the Modified Bruce Protocol to determine maximal oxygen consumption (VO₂max), computerized static and dynamic balance assessments using the PROKIN® system, and knee extensor muscle strength measurements using a hand-held dynamometer. No therapeutic intervention or treatment will be administered during the study.
1-Minute Stair Climbing Test
A performance-based functional test used to assess stair climbing ability and lower extremity functional capacity. The total number of completed stair cycles within 1 minute will be recorded.
Time frame: 1 hour
40-Meter Fast-Paced Walk Test
A walking performance test used to evaluate fast-paced gait speed and functional mobility. The time required to complete a total walking distance of 40 meters will be measured in seconds.
Time frame: 1 hour
2-Minute Walk Test
A functional endurance test used to assess ambulatory capacity. The total walking distance completed within 2 minutes will be recorded in meters.
Time frame: 1 hour
Timed Up and Go Test
A functional mobility test used to assess dynamic balance and independent mobility. The time required to stand up from a chair, walk 3 meters, return, and sit down will be measured in seconds.
Time frame: 1 hour
30-Second Sit-to-Stand Test
A lower extremity functional strength and endurance test. The total number of sit-to-stand repetitions completed within 30 seconds will be recorded.
Time frame: 1 hour
Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (VO₂max)
A maximal exercise test performed using the Modified Bruce Protocol on a treadmill to assess aerobic exercise capacity. Maximal oxygen consumption (VO₂max) values will be recorded.
Time frame: 1 hour
Static Balance Assessment
Balance performance will be evaluated using the PROKIN® computerized balance assessment system. Parameters related to postural stability and body sway during static tasks will be recorded
Time frame: 1 hour
Knee Extensor Muscle Strength
Isometric knee extensor muscle strength will be measured using a hand-held dynamometer. Maximum voluntary contraction force will be recorded.
Time frame: 1 hour
Dynamic Balance Assessment
Description: Balance performance will be evaluated using the PROKIN® computerized balance assessment system. Parameters related to postural stability and body sway during static and dynamic tasks will be recorded
Time frame: 1 hour
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