6 Minute Walking Test

The 6 Minute Walking Test (6MWT) is a simple yet effective clinical tool used to assess the exercise capacity and functional endurance of individuals. Primarily used in the evaluation of patients with heart or lung conditions, this test measures the distance an individual can walk briskly on a flat, hard surface in a period of six minutes. It is a standard test in cardiology and pulmonary rehabilitation and is increasingly being used in other areas of medicine due to its simplicity and practicality.

Inputs Required:

1. Age: The age of the individual taking the test.
2. Gender: The gender of the individual (Male/Female).
3. Height: The height of the individual, which can be input in inches, feet, or centimetres.
4. Weight: The weight of the individual, either in pounds (lbs) or kilograms (kg).
5. Distance Walked: The total distance the individual is able to walk during the test, measured in feet (ft).

Conducting the Test:

1. Preparation:
   • Ensure the test area is a flat, straight, and well-marked 30-metre (approximately 100-foot) course.
   • The individual should wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking.
2. Before Starting the Test:
   • Record the individual’s age, gender, height, and weight.
   • Explain the procedure: The individual will walk as far as possible for 6 minutes at a pace that is comfortable for them.
   • Answer any questions they may have about the test.
3. During the Test:
   • Start the timer for 6 minutes as soon as the individual begins walking.
   • Allow the individual to walk at their own pace. They can slow down, stop, and rest as needed.
   • Encourage the individual throughout the test without specifying a speed to walk.
4. After the Test:
   • Record the distance walked in feet.
   • Ensure the individual is feeling well post-test and monitor for any signs of distress.

6 Minute Walking Test

Age

Gender Male Female

Height (In Foot and Inch OR In CM)

or

Weight (In KG OR LBS)

or

Dis. Walked

Calculate

Expected 6 Minute Walk Distance for healthy patient

Lower limit of normal

Calculating Results:

• Expected 6 Minute Walking Distance for a Healthy Patient:
  • This is calculated based on the inputs provided (age, gender, height, weight). There are various predictive equations available to calculate the expected distance. For accurate results, use a standardized calculator or formula specific to the 6MWT.
• Lower Limit of Normal (LLN):
  • The LLN is also calculated based on the inputs. It represents the minimum distance that a healthy individual of the same age, gender, height, and weight would be expected to walk. The LLN is crucial for identifying individuals who may have below-normal functional exercise capacity.

Interpreting the Results:

• Compare the actual distance walked by the individual with the calculated expected distance and the LLN.
• A significant deviation below the LLN may indicate impaired functional capacity and might necessitate further medical evaluation or intervention.
• It is essential to consider the individual's overall health status, medical history, and current physical condition when interpreting the results.

The 6 Minute Walking Test is a simple yet effective way to assess an individual's functional exercise capacity. It can provide valuable insights into their health and fitness levels, particularly in a clinical context.