The Solution to the Entrenched Scoring Mistake Physical Educators Have Been Making in Push-Up Test

This study investigates the concurrent validity of push-up test scoring strategies (repetition-based, transformed score using the Brzycki equation, and transformed score using the Epley equation). Highlighting the limitation of push-up test scoring based on repetition alone to evaluate dynamic muscle strength from the push-up test, this research utilized Brzycki and Epley equations for score transformation using the initial repetition-based score. This descriptive correlational study aims to evaluate the concurrent validity of the scoring strategies by examining their relationship with the scores in the criterion test, the 1RM seated chest press test. The participants in the study are male university students from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, ranging in age from 18 to 25 years. Results show that the repetition-based score does not significantly correlate with the 1RM seated chest press test, indicating no concurrent validity in measuring upper body strength. When compared with the criterion test, the transformed push-up score using the Brzycki equation still needs a considerable distance from being a valid scoring strategy for assessing muscular strength. Lastly, the Epley-based transformed score obtained a strong positive correlation coefficient, which indicates a good concurrent validity in measuring upper-body muscular strength. Therefore, out of all the three methods of scoring, no evidence repetition-based push-up scoring can accurately measure upper body strength. Transforming push-up scores using the Epley equation not only normalizes data but also provides a valid submaximal upper body muscular strength assessment as far as concurrent validity with the 1RM seated chest press test is concerned. Utilizing Epley’s equation with push-up tests provides a practical way to measure upper-body muscular strength for schools, gyms, and sports training contexts. The development of a push-up test protocol that integrates Epley’s formula in its scoring procedure is recommended, along with investigating the Brzycki equation further in other contexts and other score transformation strategies.