Triple Hop Test

The triple hop test is an important clinical tool used to assess lower extremity function, specifically power, strength, balance and endurance. It is often used in sports medicine and physical therapy settings to evaluate individuals with lower extremity injuries, such as ACL tears or ankle sprains, and to track their progress over time.

It is just one of the 10+ Hop Tests in our MAT Courses and Measurz app.

Here are the steps to perform the Triple Hop Test:

Equipment needed:

• Hop MAT

Procedure:

1. Place the Hop MAT on the ground
2. The individual stands behind the edge of the Hop MAT slightly to the side.
3. The individual hops forward, as far as possible, landing on the same foot, and holds the landing for 1-2 seconds.
4. The individual immediately hops forward again on the same foot, as far as possible, and holds the landing for 1-2 seconds.
5. The individual hops forward for the third time, as far as possible, and holds the landing for 1-2 seconds.
6. The distance hopped on the third attempt is measured from the starting cone to the heel of the test foot on landing using a measuring tape or a marked floor.
7. The test is repeated three times, and the best distance hopped is recorded.

The test is typically performed on each leg, and the individual is given a brief rest period between trials to avoid fatigue. The test can be performed with or without shoes, depending on the preference of the tester and the individual being tested. It is important to ensure that the individual maintains proper form and balance during the test, and that the landing is stable and controlled to avoid injury.

The triple hop test is important because it provides objective data on lower extremity function, which can be used to guide treatment and rehabilitation. By measuring the distance hopped, clinicians can assess an individual's lower extremity power and strength, as well as their ability to maintain balance and control during dynamic movements. This information can be used to set goals, track progress, and modify treatment plans as necessary.

Additionally, the triple hop test is a reliable and valid measure of lower extremity function, meaning that it has been shown to be an accurate and consistent tool for assessing lower extremity performance. This makes it a valuable tool for research and clinical practice, as it allows for standardized measurement and comparison of outcomes across different populations and settings.

Here are some normative data for the Triple Hop Test:

Age group: 20-29 years (men and women)

• Average distance hopped (in cm): 761.9
• Standard deviation: 126.3

Age group: 30-39 years (men and women)

• Average distance hopped (in cm): 729.7
• Standard deviation: 118.5

Age group: 40-49 years (men and women)

• Average distance hopped (in cm): 661.4
• Standard deviation: 103.8

Age group: 50-59 years (men and women)

• Average distance hopped (in cm): 572.7
• Standard deviation: 84.7

Note: These values are based on a study by Munro et al. (2012) that included 327 healthy adults (165 men and 162 women) aged 20-59 years. However, it is important to note that normative values may vary depending on the population being tested and the specific testing protocols used.

Keen to start using the Triple Hop Test?

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References:

1. Munro AG, Herrington LC, Carolan M. Reliability of 2-dimensional video assessment of frontal-plane dynamic knee valgus during common athletic screening tasks. J Sport Rehabil. 2012;21(1):7-11. doi: 10.1123/jsr.21.1.7
2. Bolgla LA, Keskula DR. Reliability of lower extremity functional performance tests. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 1997;26(3):138-142. doi: 10.2519/jospt.1997.26.3.138
3. Hegedus EJ, McDonough S, Bleakley C, Cook CE, Baxter GD. Clinician-friendly lower extremity physical performance tests in athletes: a systematic review of measurement properties and correlation with injury, part 2. The tests for the hip, thigh, foot and ankle including the star excursion balance test. Br J Sports Med. 2015;49(10):649-656. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2014-094094