Effect of external and internal cues on core muscle activation during the Sahrmann five-level core stability test

Table 2 Explanation of each exercise of the Sahrmann five-level core stability test

Levels	Description
Level 1	The participant will slowly raise one leg to a position of approximately 90º hip flexion and 90º knee flexion. The participant will then attempt to bring the opposite leg to the same position in the same manner (i.e. “final position”)
Level 2	From the final position of level 1, the participant will slowly lower one leg, so the heel contacts the ground/plinth. Then the leg will slide out until the knee is fully extended
Level 3	From the final position of level 1, the participant will slowly lower one leg, so the heel is approximately 12 cm above the plinth. Then the leg will slide out until the knee is fully extended
Level 4	From the final position of level 1, the participant will slowly lower both legs together as the heels are contacting the plinth. Then the legs will slide out until the knee is fully extended
Level 5	From the final position of level 1, the participant will slowly lower both legs simultaneously until they are approximately 12 cm above the plinth. Then the legs will slide out until the knees are fully extended