6 Minute Walk Test (6MWT) Calculator
- 6 Minute Walk Test (6MWT): Explanation and Clinical Context
The 6 Minute Walk Test (6MWT) is a standardized submaximal exercise test used to assess functional capacity, aerobic endurance, and response to therapy across a wide range of cardiopulmonary and systemic diseases. It measures the maximum distance an individual can walk on a flat surface over six minutes, reflecting integrated performance of the cardiovascular, pulmonary, circulatory, and muscular systems.
Predicted six-minute walking distance (6MWD) depends on demographic and anthropometric factors, including age, sex, height, and weight. The regression equations used in this calculator are validated formulas derived from large population cohorts and widely referenced in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation and heart failure assessment. A distance below the lower limit of normal (LLN) or significantly reduced percentage of predicted 6MWD correlates with increased morbidity, worse functional class, and poorer prognosis in conditions such as heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, COPD, and interstitial lung disease.
Reference:
Enright PL, Sherrill DL. Reference equations for the six-minute walk in healthy adults. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 1998;158(5):1384–1387.
Crapo RO et al. ATS Statement: Guidelines for the Six-Minute Walk Test. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2002;166:111–117.
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