1. What is a Gait Speed Calculator?

Definition: This calculator measures walking speed in feet per second based on distance walked and time taken.

Purpose: It helps healthcare professionals and researchers assess mobility, functional status, and fall risk in patients.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( GS \) — Gait speed (feet/second)
• \( D \) — Distance walked (feet)
• \( T \) — Time taken (seconds)

Explanation: The distance is divided by time to calculate average walking speed.

3. Importance of Gait Speed Measurement

Details: Gait speed is a vital sign of mobility and overall health. Slower speeds may indicate increased fall risk, functional decline, or underlying health issues.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the distance walked in feet and time taken in seconds. All values must be > 0. Standard tests often use 4-10 foot walkways.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal gait speed?
A: Healthy older adults typically walk 3.3-4.9 ft/s. Speeds below 3.3 ft/s may indicate mobility issues.

Q2: Why measure in feet per second?
A: Feet per second is common in clinical settings, especially in the US where measurements are often taken in feet.

Q3: How should the test be administered?
A: Measure a straight path, have the person walk at their normal pace, and time from first movement to when both feet cross the finish line.

Q4: Should I use walking aids during testing?
A: Test with whatever mobility aids the person normally uses, and note this in your records.

Q5: How can I convert to meters per second?
A: Multiply ft/s by 0.3048 to get m/s. 1 ft/s = 0.3048 m/s.