Generalized Examination of Erector Spinae Endurance in College Students Traveling By Bus Using Biering-Sorenson Test

Abstract

Background:

Spinal muscle endurance is vital for maintaining postural integrity, especially in students subjected to prolonged static postures due to academic demands and long-distance travel. Young adults commuting daily by bus are particularly vulnerable to spinal fatigue, reduced core endurance, and associated functional limitations. The erector spinae, being the primary postural muscles, are at high risk of endurance decline in such populations.

Objective:

This study was undertaken to evaluate the endurance of the erector spinae muscles in college students who commute daily by bus, using the Biering-Sorensen Test. In addition, it sought to determine how endurance relates to key determinants such as height, weight, and body mass index. The research further examined the influence of physical activity levels measured through the IPAQ, daily sitting duration, and travel distance. Functional disability was assessed using the (ODI). Together, these parameters provided a comprehensive understanding of factors affecting spinal muscle endurance in young adult commuters.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 339 college students (174 males, 165 females; aged 18–25 years) who commuted more than 10 km daily by bus. Trunk extensor endurance was measured using the Biering-Sorensen Test, while physical activity and disability were assessed with the IPAQ-SF and ODI, respectively. Sitting duration and travel distance were self-reported. Data were analysed using Pearson’s correlation in SPSS v25.0.

Results:

Mean endurance times were similar in males (128.40 ± 58.34 seconds) and females (129.16 ± 61.66 seconds), with no significant gender difference (p = 0.910). Sitting duration and ODI scores showed strong negative correlations with endurance in both genders (p < 0.00001), while IPAQ scores were strongly positively correlated (p < 0.00001). Height, weight, BMI, and travel distance showed weak or non-significant associations with endurance. Additionally, sitting duration was strongly negatively correlated with IPAQ scores and strongly positively correlated with ODI scores across both genders.

Conclusion:

Mean endurance times were similar in males (128.40 ± 58.34 s) and females (129.16 ± 61.66 s) with no significant difference (p = 0.910). Endurance showed strong negative correlations with sitting duration and ODI, and a strong positive correlation with IPAQ (all p < 0.00001). Anthropometric variables and travel distance showed weak or non-significant associations. Sitting duration was inversely related to IPAQ and positively related to ODI across genders.