6-minute walk test

Maximum distance covered at self-selected pace over six minutes on a flat, straight, marked course (typically 30 m corridor). A submaximal measure of integrated cardiopulmonary and musculoskeletal capacity.

Strongly correlated with measured VO₂max in older adults and clinical populations, while requiring no laboratory equipment. Used as outcome measure in pulmonary hypertension, COPD, heart failure, and older-adult deconditioning research.

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.

Reference equations adjust for age/sex/height/weight. Compare to predicted % rather than absolute metres across people.

Standardise course, pacing instructions, and rest pattern across repeat tests for valid trend tracking.

• Whether the 6MWT or a formal cardiopulmonary exercise test is more useful for your situation.
• If distance walked is below predicted, what investigations may be warranted.

1. [1]Holland et al., ATS/ERS Technical Standard — Field walking tests in chronic respiratory disease(2014)
2. [2]Enright & Sherrill, Reference equations for the six-minute walk in healthy adults(1998)