We do this many times a day, it is one of the determinants of our level of independence. There are four levels during a sit to stand phase, as stated by a webinar in medbridge. During the first phase, the buttocks move slightly forward, in the second phase, the buttocks are lifted to a max and there is dorsiflexion of the ankle, while simultaneously the shank moves over the foot. The third phase there is a continued maximum of dorsiflexion and there's a full extension of the knees and the hips. The final phase is primarily stabilizing which results in the patient standing. This is the phase right before walking.
As we age, it may not be uncommon to experience greater difficulty during a sit to stand transfer. There are ways that we can improve our ability to transfer from sit to stand and regain that level of independence. We can work on improving our sit to stand transfers by strengthening various muscle groups such as hip flexors, ankle doors of flexors hip and the extensors. Difficulty during transfers can be addressed by effectively strengthening these muscles while simultaneously enhancing muscle sequencing and possibly good muscle energy techniques.