Functional test
Gait speed
Walking speed · 4-metre gait speed
How fast you walk over four metres — a stronger mortality predictor than chronological age past 65.
What it measures
Self-selected (comfortable) walking speed over a fixed distance, typically 4 metres. Reported in metres per second. Captures multi-system function: lower-body strength, balance, cardiopulmonary capacity, cognition, sensory function.
Reference context
2 guideline sources
Healthy adults under 60 typically walk 1.2–1.4 m/s. Decline is gradual; falling below 1.0 m/s in adults past 70 is a meaningful functional signal.
Population context — consult guideline targets below
Mechanism
Why moving this marker matters
Gait speed integrates the output of every major physiological system needed for independent function. Studenski 2011 (JAMA, n=34,485 pooled) showed gait speed prospectively predicts survival across cohorts — at age 75, those walking ≥1.0 m/s had double the median survival of those walking <0.4 m/s.
Guideline targets
What major guidelines recommend
EWGSOP2 (severe sarcopenia threshold)
≤0.8 m/s
Studenski 2011 (life expectancy associations)
≥1.0 m/s associates with median+ survival; <0.6 m/s with substantially shortened expectancy.
How to measure
The test, where to get it, when to repeat
Method
Mark a 4-metre walkway with extra space on either end for acceleration/deceleration. Walk at usual pace. Time from start mark to end mark. Three trials, take the average.
Where
Free to perform at home. Many primary-care and physiotherapy settings include it routinely from age 65.
Typical cost
Free.
Fasting
Not required
When to test
EWGSOP2 2019
65+Annual assessment in adults 65+; included in the sarcopenia diagnostic pathway.
AGS / BGS falls
65+Recommended annually as part of falls risk assessment in older adults.
How to test
Doing this test
This is a self-test — no equipment needed. A timer or tape measure is usually enough. Your GP can confirm the protocol if you want validation.
Context
Reading the numbers
Healthy adults under 60 typically walk 1.2–1.4 m/s. Decline is gradual; falling below 1.0 m/s in adults past 70 is a meaningful functional signal.
Caveats
Acute pain, joint flare, recent injury all reduce single readings. Test on a flat indoor surface with no obstacles.
See also
Related markers
Take to your physician
Worth discussing
- If your gait speed has dropped noticeably from a prior reading, what investigations are warranted.
- Whether physiotherapy referral is appropriate for slow gait speed.
- How sensory issues (vision, vestibular) may be contributing.
Sources
Cited literature
Edited by Carl Pöhl, MD · Healicus editorial
Last reviewed May 2026
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