Y balance test (YBT)

The Y Balance Test (YBT) is an alternative to the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) as an indicator of risk for injuries related to the hip-knee-ankle system. Thanks to the strength, flexibility and proprioception demands of this test, it will allow the evaluator to detect subjects at risk of suffering a lower limb injury.

• Required Material: A flat, non-slip surface, a tape measure and any kind of tools for marking lines on the ground.

• Procedure: Three lines should be marked with tape or other material on the ground in a Y-shape with the rear segments forming a 90-degree angle, as shown in the illustration. The subject stands barefoot in the central part of the Y, balancing on one leg. With the other leg he/she will try to reach with the toe as far as possible in each of the 3 branches of the “Y” (anterior, posteromedial and posterolateral) and then the 3 distances reached will be measured. The test should be performed on both legs and the results will be analysed.

• Assessment: It is measured in centimetres (cm) and the subject has a maximum of 3 attempts with each leg. In Fisicalcoach, the longest distance reached by the subject can be recorded, as well as the mean and the median. When the subject shows a large difference between one leg and the other, there is an asymmetry.

• Remarks: The YBT is a widely used test for injury risk prevention. This test has been proposed as a way of analysing muscle symmetry/asymmetry in athletes of different disciplines. Test results have been shown to improve after the prescription of appropriate training.