Strength Isometric Test: Mid-Shin Pull

The Mid-Shin Pull measures how much force a client can produce during an isometric pulling task from a mid-shin bar or handle position. It is commonly used to assess whole-body pulling strength in a fixed setup, with contribution from the hips, knees, trunk, back, grip and lower limbs.

The Muscle Meter is used to measure force output during the pull. When used on its own, the Muscle Meter primarily measures peak force, which is the highest force value produced during the test. When used with Measurz, Muscle Meter data can be recorded and analysed with broader strength and force-time metrics, including peak force, impulse, torque, rate of force development, time to peak and fatigue index.

For routine Mid-Shin Pull testing, peak force is usually the main metric. Force as a percentage of body weight may be useful if directly calculated from the client’s test force and body weight, especially for baseline comparison, side-to-side comparison where applicable and retesting. Rate of force development and time to peak may be useful when rapid pulling force, acceleration, tackling, jumping or lifting intent are relevant. Impulse may be useful if sustained force over a defined time window is intentionally tested. Fatigue index is only relevant if repeated or sustained pulling contractions are part of the protocol.

The result can support assessment reasoning and progress tracking, but it does not diagnose back pain, hip pain, strength imbalance, injury risk, lifting capacity or readiness for sport or work on its own.

What Is the Mid-Shin Pull?

The Mid-Shin Pull is an isometric pulling strength assessment.

The client pulls against an immovable bar, strap or handle positioned around mid-shin height. The goal is to produce maximal force without visible movement.

The test is similar in concept to other isometric pulling tests, such as the isometric mid-thigh pull, but the joint angles and pulling position are different. Because of this, Mid-Shin Pull results should not be compared directly with mid-thigh pull values unless the protocol supports that comparison.

Consistent setup matters because bar height, handle position, hip angle, knee angle, trunk angle, foot position, strap length, anchor position and client intent can all affect the result.

This test measures force output in a specific pulling setup. It does not fully measure deadlift performance, jumping ability, sprint speed, back health, sport performance or movement quality on its own.

Step-by-Step Protocol / Practice

1. Prepare the client

Explain that the test measures how strongly they can pull against an immovable setup.

Record baseline symptoms, back discomfort, hip symptoms, knee symptoms, grip discomfort, fatigue, recent training and current readiness.

Use at least one submaximal practice trial so the client understands the position and effort required.

2. Set the client position

Position the client with feet in the chosen stance and the bar or handle at mid-shin height.

Record:

• stance width
• foot angle
• footwear
• bar or handle height
• hip angle
• knee angle
• trunk angle
• grip type
• whether straps are used
• whether the test uses a bar, handle or belt setup

3. Set up the Muscle Meter and anchor

Connect the Muscle Meter so it measures pulling force in line with the direction of pull.

Record the anchor point, strap length, strap angle, handle setup and whether any part of the setup moved during testing.

Push, pull, strap-stabilised and bar-based scores should be recorded separately unless the protocol supports direct comparison.

4. Place the handle or bar

Place the bar, handle or strap so the client can pull upward or backward according to the chosen protocol without the setup slipping.

The force direction should be clear and repeatable.

5. Stabilise the position

The client should maintain the selected stance and trunk position without jerking, shifting the feet, rounding excessively, hitching the shoulders or changing the start position.

The setup should allow strong effort while keeping the test repeatable.

6. Give clear instructions

Use consistent instructions such as:

“Take up the slack.”

“Build up smoothly, then pull as hard as you can.”

“Keep the position still.”

“Keep breathing.”

“Do not jerk the handle.”

“Tell me if you feel pain, cramping, tingling or anything unusual.”

7. Record trials

Use 1–2 practice trials, then record 2–3 maximal trials.

A common contraction duration is 3–5 seconds.

Rest for 60–120 seconds between trials, or longer if symptoms, cramping or fatigue occur.

Record whether the final score uses the best trial or average of recorded trials.

8. Identify invalid trials

Repeat or mark a trial as invalid if:

• the feet move
• the handle or strap slips
• the anchor moves
• the client jerks the start
• the client changes trunk position
• the grip fails before lower-body force is expressed
• pain limits effort
• the client starts before the device is ready
• the setup is not aligned with the intended pull direction

9. Record symptoms

Record back discomfort, hip symptoms, knee symptoms, grip discomfort, dizziness, breath holding, confidence, apprehension and symptom response after testing.

Do not repeatedly test through high pain or worsening symptoms.

For retesting, match the same position, device placement, anchor setup, instructions, contraction duration, rest period, scoring method and symptom recording.

Why It Is Used

The Mid-Shin Pull is used to quantify isometric pulling force in a repeatable setup.

It may be useful for:

• baseline whole-body pulling strength assessment
• monitoring strength change over time
• tracking lower-limb and posterior-chain force output
• comparing performance across training blocks
• supporting deadlift or lifting strength profiling
• strength profiling for sport, workplace or gym clients
• client education
• comparing strength with jump, sprint, squat, split squat or hinge-based tests

The test should support assessment reasoning. It should not be used as a stand-alone diagnostic, capacity or clearance measure.

What It Measures

The test primarily measures isometric pulling force in the chosen mid-shin setup.

It may provide useful information about:

• whole-body pulling force
• hip and knee extension contribution
• posterior-chain force output
• trunk bracing contribution
• grip contribution
• confidence producing high force
• change in force over time
• relationship between strength and related performance tasks

It does not directly measure:

• deadlift one-repetition maximum
• back health
• injury risk
• tissue capacity
• movement quality
• sprint speed
• jump power
• work capacity
• sport readiness
• manual handling readiness

Understanding the Result, Reference Values and What to Look For

What a higher or lower result may suggest

A higher score may suggest greater isometric pulling force output in that specific setup. A lower score may suggest reduced force output, but the reason should be interpreted carefully.

Lower force may be influenced by pain, apprehension, grip limitation, fatigue, poor familiarisation, poor bracing, inconsistent body position, anchor movement or reduced confidence.

One result should not be interpreted in isolation. Interpretation is strongest when the same setup is repeated over time and reviewed alongside symptoms, confidence, movement quality, related tests and functional goals.

What can influence the result

Important influences include:

• bar or handle height
• hip angle
• knee angle
• trunk angle
• foot position
• grip type
• strap length
• anchor position
• pulling direction
• pain
• apprehension
• fatigue
• familiarisation
• breath holding
• client confidence
• setup stiffness

Normative, reference and comparative values

Direct Muscle Meter-specific universal norms for the Mid-Shin Pull are limited.

Most published isometric pull reference data relate to the isometric mid-thigh pull, which uses a different bar height and joint position. These data can support general interpretation principles but should not be used as direct Mid-Shin Pull targets unless the protocol is closely matched.

For most Measurz use, the most useful comparisons are:

• the client’s own baseline
• change across retests
• comparison with related strength tests
• force as a percentage of body weight if directly calculated
• symptoms during the test
• confidence and effort quality
• performance relative to training goals

Reference values provide context, not diagnostic, job-clearance or sport-clearance cut-offs.

Practical interpretation priorities

Use this order:

• compare with the client’s own baseline
• compare with previous Mid-Shin Pull results under the same setup
• consider symptoms during and after testing
• consider confidence and effort quality
• review whether compensations or invalid trials were present
• compare with related strength, mobility or performance tests
• relate the result to sport, gym, work or daily-life demands
• retest under the same conditions to monitor change
• do not use reference values as pass/fail criteria

What to Look at for Each Relevant Muscle Meter Metric

Peak force

Use for maximum isometric pulling force, baseline strength, progress tracking and comparing force across retests.

Look for best score or average score, consistent setup, change from baseline, symptom response and compensation during maximal effort.

Force as percentage of body weight

Use only when calculated directly from test force and body weight.

Look for changes over time. This may help compare performance within the same client across training blocks, but it should not be treated as a universal target.

Torque

Torque is usually less practical for a whole-body Mid-Shin Pull unless the lever arm and biomechanical model are clearly defined.

Use only when the lever arm is measured and a specific interpretation is needed.

Rate of force development

Use when rapid force production matters, such as sprinting, jumping, tackling, lifting intent or explosive sport tasks.

Look for early force production and whether RFD changes while peak force stays similar.

Time to peak

Use to understand whether force is produced quickly or gradually.

Look for delayed peak force, faster time to peak across retests, and whether a slower time reflects caution, poor cueing, pain or actual performance difference.

Impulse

Use only if a sustained force window is intentionally tested.

Look for whether the client can produce and sustain force over the selected time window.

Fatigue index

Use only if repeated or sustained Mid-Shin Pull contractions are part of the protocol.

Look for drop-off across repeated trials and whether fatigue improves across a training block.

Assessing and Providing Context for Different Client Populations

Youth clients

Consider maturation, training age, technique familiarity and attention. Use clear instruction, practice trials and conservative loading expectations.

Adults and general fitness clients

Use the test for baseline strength, progress tracking and confidence with pulling force. Compare results with training goals and related movement tasks.

Older adults

Consider balance, confidence, grip, fatigue, back symptoms and effort tolerance. A lower score may provide useful context, but it should not be interpreted without functional assessment.

Athletes and sport clients

Consider sprinting, jumping, tackling, cutting and lifting demands. Peak force alone does not equal sport performance, but it can support a broader strength profile.

Workplace and manual task clients

Consider lifting, carrying, pulling, pushing, bracing and job-specific demands. Do not use one strength score to clear work duties.

Clients returning after injury

Use the test to monitor force output, confidence and symptom response over time. Strength alone should not confirm readiness.

Clients with pain or persistent symptoms

Pain, fear, guarding, fatigue, apprehension and confidence may influence force. Record symptoms carefully and compare with related findings.

Higher body mass clients

Absolute force and force relative to body mass may both be useful. Interpret results in relation to goals, symptoms and function rather than assumptions.

Reliability, Validity and Measurement Considerations

Repeatability improves when the same setup is used each time.

Record and standardise:

• same bar or handle height
• same stance
• same foot position
• same footwear
• same hip angle
• same knee angle
• same trunk angle
• same grip type
• same strap length
• same anchor position
• same pull direction
• same instructions
• same contraction duration
• same rest period
• same scoring method
• same symptom and compensation recording

The isometric mid-thigh pull has strong reliability evidence when protocols are standardised. The Mid-Shin Pull should follow the same principle: consistent setup is essential.

Because the Mid-Shin Pull uses a different position from the mid-thigh pull, results should be interpreted as protocol-specific.

Common Errors and Limitations

Common errors include:

• changing handle height
• changing stance
• changing pull direction
• jerking the start
• anchor movement
• strap slipping
• grip failing early
• poor body-position control
• not recording symptoms
• inconsistent rest periods
• comparing mid-shin and mid-thigh pull results directly
• treating the score as lifting capacity or diagnosis

Limitations include:

• testing is setup-dependent
• Muscle Meter-specific universal norms may be limited
• grip may limit score
• pain or fear may reduce force output
• setup stiffness can affect readings
• peak force does not measure endurance or movement quality
• high force does not automatically mean safe lifting technique
• the test does not determine sport or work readiness on its own

Practical Applications

The Mid-Shin Pull may be useful for:

• establishing baseline pulling strength
• tracking strength over time
• monitoring response to training
• reviewing force relative to body weight if directly calculated
• supporting strength profiling
• comparing with jump, sprint, squat or hinge tests
• educating the client about measurable progress
• reviewing sport, work or gym demands

Ideas to Make the Result Better

If force is low, consider reviewing familiarisation, stance, grip, trunk position, symptoms, confidence and setup stiffness.

If grip limits the result, record it clearly and consider whether grip strength testing or straps are appropriate for the test goal.

If pain limits the result, record the pain response and review whether the test position or effort level needs modification.

If force is good but function is limited, compare with lifting technique, gait, sprinting, jumping, split squat, balance and sport or work demands.

If the client is improving, keep the same protocol and monitor whether strength, symptoms, confidence and function improve together.

Recommended Standard Protocol Summary

Position: Standing isometric pull from mid-shin handle/bar height
Start position: Stance, foot angle, hip angle, knee angle and trunk angle recorded
Joint or trunk angle: Record knee, hip and trunk position where possible
Trials: 1–2 practice trials, then 2–3 recorded trials
Contraction duration: 3–5 seconds
Rest: 60–120 seconds between efforts
Metric: Peak force, plus percentage of body weight only if directly calculated
Attachment or device setup: Muscle Meter aligned with pull direction through fixed strap, bar or handle setup
Final score: Best trial or average of trials
Key retesting requirement: Same handle height, stance, device setup, instructions, contraction duration, rest and scoring method

FAQs

What does the Mid-Shin Pull measure?

It measures isometric pulling force output in a fixed mid-shin setup.

Is it the same as the isometric mid-thigh pull?

No. The bar height and joint angles are different, so scores should not be compared directly.

Should the result be recorded as percentage of body weight?

It can be if calculated directly from test force and body weight. Use it mainly for internal comparison and retesting.

Are there universal norms for the Muscle Meter Mid-Shin Pull?

Published universal Muscle Meter norms for this exact protocol are limited. Baseline and retest comparison are usually more useful.

Can this test predict deadlift strength?

It may provide useful context, but it should not be treated as a direct deadlift one-repetition maximum prediction unless validated for that protocol.

Can it diagnose back pain?

No. It measures force output and does not diagnose the cause of pain or symptoms.

What can make the result unreliable?

Different handle height, stance, strap setup, anchor movement, fatigue, pain, grip limitation and inconsistent instructions can affect results.

What should be recorded in Measurz?

Record position, setup, handle height, peak force, percentage of body weight if calculated, symptoms, compensations, scoring method and retest conditions.

Key Takeaways

• The Mid-Shin Pull measures isometric pulling force output in a fixed setup.
• Peak force is usually the main routine Muscle Meter metric.
• Setup consistency is essential because handle height and joint angles strongly affect the result.
• Mid-Shin Pull scores should not be compared directly with mid-thigh pull scores.
• Percentage of body weight should only be used when calculated directly from force and body weight.
• Measurz should capture setup, symptoms, bodyweight-normalised values where directly calculated, compensations and retesting conditions.

References

Comfort, P., Dos’Santos, T., Beckham, G. K., Stone, M. H., Guppy, S. N., & Haff, G. G. (2019). Standardisation and methodological considerations for the isometric midthigh pull. Strength and Conditioning Journal, 41(2), 57–79.

Grgic, J., Scapec, B., Mikulic, P., & Pedisic, Z. (2022). Test-retest reliability of isometric mid-thigh pull maximum strength assessment: A systematic review. Biology of Sport, 39(2), 407–414. https://doi.org/10.5114/biolsport.2022.106149

James, L. P., Roberts, L. A., Haff, G. G., Kelly, V. G., & Beckman, E. M. (2017). Validity and reliability of a portable isometric mid-thigh clean pull. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 31(5), 1378–1386.

Stutter, L., Talpey, S., & James, L. P. (2026). The reliability and validity of isometric midthigh pull measures obtained from a portable isometric dynamometer. International Journal of Strength and Conditioning, 5(1).