This Viral Trend Claims It Can Tell Your Biological Age

A new social media challenge has emerged, asking participants to measure their biological age by attempting to jump from a kneeling position to their feet. This trend follows similar challenges that have surfaced online, such as a push-up benchmark for women and the “old man test.” Prominent figures, including former New York Yankees player Derek Jeter, have participated, with the challenge purportedly suggesting that those who succeed indicate a biological age under 30.

However, fitness experts have clarified that this jump test is not a reliable indicator of biological age. Dr. Larry Balle, a sports medicine physician, emphasized that biological age is influenced by genetics, health markers, and choices such as exercise and diet. Similarly, Ben Yamuder, an exercise physiologist, pointed out that the jump test fails to accurately assess an individual’s fitness or biological age. Instead, it likely reflects coordination, balance, and strength, which can vary widely based on training and age.

Fitness professionals warn that the challenge may pose injury risks, particularly for individuals lacking experience in plyometric exercises. They recommend focusing on safer fitness evaluations, such as monitoring cardiovascular capacity and muscular endurance, rather than participating in potentially hazardous social media trends.