Power Testing: Single-Legged Timed Side Hop Function Test

The Single-Legged Timed Side Hop Function Test assesses repeated side-to-side hopping speed and control on one leg. It is useful for monitoring lateral hop capacity and side-to-side function.

Introduction

A client may feel confident in straight-line running but hesitate with repeated lateral hopping. This test provides a time-based measure of how quickly and accurately they can move side-to-side on one leg.

Quick Summary

Test name: Single-Legged Timed Side Hop Function Test
Purpose: Assess timed single-leg lateral hop function
What it assesses: Lateral hop speed, endurance, accuracy and control
Equipment: Marked lines or MAT, timer
Key finding: Time or reps depending on protocol
Best used with: Side Hop Test, Square Hop Test, Lateral Hop Test
Key limitation: Protocol must be clearly recorded

What Is the Test?

This is a single-leg lateral hopping task performed over a line or between markers while time, repetitions or errors are recorded. The MAT page identifies it as a Power Testing lower-limb function test.  

Why It Is Used

It helps assess repeated lateral hop function, especially when clients need to return to cutting, sidestepping or sport-specific lateral movement.

What It Measures

It measures repeated lateral hop speed, control, rhythm and tolerance.

Who It Is Useful For

Athletes, ankle rehabilitation clients, ACL rehabilitation clients and clients returning to lateral movement.

Equipment Required

MAT or marked lines
Timer
Measurz or MAT
Optional video

Step-by-Step Protocol

Set up the line or markers.

The client stands on one leg.

Cue the client to hop side-to-side according to the selected protocol.

Time the task or count reps for the selected duration.

Record errors, loss of balance and symptoms.

Repeat on the other leg.

Scoring and Interpretation

Score time, repetitions and errors according to the protocol. Better performance usually means faster completion or more successful hops with fewer errors.

Normative Data or Reference Values

No universal values should be applied unless matched to the exact protocol.

Reliability and Validity

Reliability depends on spacing, timing rules, error definition and trial count.

Common Errors and Testing Limitations

Common errors include inconsistent line spacing, unclear scoring, counting failed hops and not recording pain or balance loss.

Practical Applications

Use this test to monitor lateral hop function and compare sides over time.

How to Record This in Measurz

Record side, line spacing, time or reps, errors, pain, balance loss, fatigue and confidence.

FAQs

What does it measure?

Repeated side-to-side single-leg hop function.

Is it the same as the Side Hop Test?

It is similar, but the exact timing and scoring protocol should be recorded separately.

Should errors be counted?

Yes. Errors help interpret the score.

Key Takeaways

This test measures repeated lateral hop function.
Protocol details matter.
Record time or reps plus errors.
Compare sides under identical conditions.

References

Grindstaff, T. L., Hammill, R. R., Tuzson, A. E., & Hertel, J. (2006). Normative data for the lateral hop test. Journal of Athletic Training, 41(3), 311–314.

Hegedus, E. J., McDonough, S., Bleakley, C., Cook, C. E., & Baxter, G. D. (2015). Clinician-friendly lower extremity physical performance tests in athletes. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 49(10), 649–656.