Age and gender specific reference values, relative and absolute reliability of single-leg hop test in normal, overweight and obese children

To determine age and gender specific reference values, relative and absolute reliability of Single-Leg Hop Test in normal, overweight and obese children
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among school-going children between the age of 8 and 15 years. Participants were stratified by age and gender. The test was conducted using standardised procedures, and hop distance was recorded as the primary outcome measure. Age and gender-specific reference ranges were established using descriptive statistics, including mean values and standard deviations (SD) to measure the changes in functional performance. Relative reliability was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), while absolute reliability was determined using the standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC).
Results: A total of 1198 school-going children of age 8-15 years were analyzed. The single leg hop distance demonstrated a progressive increase with age (p < 0.05). Females showed slightly higher values than males, although the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). BMI had a significant effect on right limb performance (p = 0.012), but not left limb performance (p > 0.05). The children reflected age-related improvements in lower-limb strength, balance, and functional ability. For the reliability analysis of Single Leg Hop Test, a separate sample of 166 school-going children across different BMI categories were analysed. Intraclass Correlation Coefficients of 0.99 for right and left leg hop distances (95% CI: 0.987-0.996, p < 0.001) indicated excellent reliability.
Conclusion: This study provides age and gender-specific normative reference values for the Single Leg Hop Test in school-going children. The study reported age-related improvements, no significant gender differences, reduced performance with higher BMI, thus supporting its use as a standardized tool for clinical utility in pediatric functional assessment.