What does the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test measure?

The Timed Up and Go (TUG) test is specifically designed to assess a person's functional mobility and evaluate their risk of falling. During the test, an individual is timed as they rise from a chair, walk a short distance, turn around, walk back to the chair, and sit down. This simple yet effective assessment provides valuable insights into how well a person can navigate their environment, combining elements of balance, walking speed, and transfers between sitting and standing.

A key aspect of the TUG test is that it identifies potential mobility issues that may contribute to falls, making it a critical tool in fall risk assessment for various populations, particularly the elderly or those with mobility impairments. By focusing on functional mobility, the TUG test helps healthcare professionals tailor interventions to improve a patient’s safety and mobility in daily life.