April 10, 2026
ByLynne Christensen,
Staff Writer
- Reviewed byChristina Ruggeri, PT, DPT, NCS,
Contributor
When it comes to muscle <a https: alt="1e61abca-8893-4ae8-921e-002589ce7db8">
Here’s a simple test of leg strength: Sit in a chair with your back against the chair and your arms folded across your chest. Have someone time you while you stand up and sit back down five times in a row, as quickly as you can. Other than when you start, try not to let your back touch the chair back when you sit.
Based on your age, you should be able to stand up and sit back down five times within the time indicated below.
- age 40 to 49: 7.6 seconds
- age 50 to 59: 7.7 seconds
- age 60 to 69: 7.8 seconds
- age 70 to 79: 9.3 seconds
- age 80 to 85: 10.8 seconds.
For more information, check out the Harvard Special Health Report Mobility and Independence.
About the Author
Lynne Christensen,
Staff Writer
Lynne Christensen is a staff writer who contributes articles to Harvard Health Publishing’s flagship website and its four newsletters: the Harvard Health Letter, Harvard Heart Letter, Harvard Women’s Health Watch, and Harvard Men’s Health Watch. She …
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About the Reviewer
Christina Ruggeri, PT, DPT, NCS,
Contributor
Christina Ruggeri earned her doctor of physical therapy degree at the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions in 2018, and became an APTA board-certified neurologic specialist in 2022. She practices at the Spaulding Outpatient Center …
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View all posts by Christina Ruggeri, PT, DPT, NCS
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