1. What is a Six Minute Walk Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates gait speed (walking speed) based on the distance covered during a six-minute walk test.

Purpose: It helps healthcare professionals and researchers assess functional mobility and endurance in patients.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( GS \) — Gait speed (meters/second)
• \( D \) — Distance walked in six minutes (meters)

Explanation: The distance walked is divided by 360 seconds (6 minutes) to calculate average walking speed.

3. Importance of Six Minute Walk Test

Details: The six-minute walk test is a standardized measure of functional exercise capacity used in cardiopulmonary and neuromuscular assessments.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the distance walked in meters during a six-minute walk test. The value must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal gait speed result?
A: Healthy adults typically walk 400-700 meters in six minutes (1.1-1.9 m/s). Results vary by age and health conditions.

Q2: How should the test be conducted?
A: The test should be performed on a flat, straight course with standardized encouragement and safety precautions.

Q3: What factors affect six minute walk distance?
A: Age, height, weight, gender, motivation, and medical conditions all influence results.

Q4: Can this calculator be used for children?
A: Yes, but reference values differ for pediatric populations.

Q5: How does this relate to clinical assessments?
A: Reduced gait speed correlates with increased morbidity and mortality in many conditions.