A sit and reach box like this one can be purchased on ShopDOE (opens in a new browser window).
Alternative Flexibility Testing Apparatus
1. Use a sturdy cardboard box at least 12 inches tall. Turn the box so that the bottom is up. Tape a yardstick to the bottom. The yardstick must be placed so that the 9-inch mark is exactly parallel with the vertical plane against which the subject's foot will be placed and the 0-inch end is nearer the subject.
2. Use a bench that is about 12 inches wide. Turn the bench on its side. Tape a yardstick to the bench so that the 9-inch mark is exactly parallel with thevertical plane against which the subject's foot will be placed and the 0-inch end is nearer the subject.
See other examples below:
Video instructions available here (opens in a new browser window)
Items needed:
1. Using any sturdy wood or comparable material (3/4-inch plywood seems to work well), cut the following pieces;
- Two pieces 12 x 12 inches
- Two pieces 12 x 10 1/2 inches
- One piece 12 x 22 inches
2. Cut 10 x 4-inch pieces from each side of one end of the 12 x 22-inch piece to make the top of the box. Beginning at the small end, mark 1-inch intervals up to 12 inches.
3. Construct a box (use nails, screws, or wood glue) with the remaining four pieces. Attach the top. It is crucial that the 9-inch mark be exactly parallel with the vertical plane against which the subject's foot will be placed. The 0-inch mark is at the end nearest the subject.
4. Cover the apparatus with polyurethane sealer or shellac.