6 Minute Walk Test Calculator
Calculate predicted walking distance and assess functional capacity using the 6MWT
Patient Information
Age in years (typically 18-80 for reference equations)
Gender affects predicted walking distance
Height in centimeters or feet
Weight in kilograms or pounds
Predicted 6 Minute Walk Distance
Formula used: 6MWD = (7.57 × height) – (5.02 × age) – (1.76 × weight) – 309
Lower limit: Predicted distance - 153 meters
Reference: Enright and Sherrill equations (1998)
Actual Test Results (Optional)
Distance walked during the 6-minute test
Example Calculation
Male Patient Example
Patient: 72-year-old male
Height: 177 cm (5.8 ft)
Weight: 80 kg (176 lb)
Actual distance walked: 432 meters
Calculation
6MWD = (7.57 × 177) – (5.02 × 72) – (1.76 × 80) – 309
6MWD = 1340 – 361 – 141 – 309 = 529 meters
Lower limit = 529 – 153 = 376 meters
Result: 432m is above lower limit (82% of predicted)
6MWT Interpretation
Normal
≥ Lower limit
Adequate functional capacity
Borderline
Below lower limit
May indicate mild limitation
Impaired
Significantly below normal
Functional impairment present
Factors Affecting Performance
Factors that Decrease Distance
- • Shorter height
- • Female gender
- • Older age
- • Higher body weight
- • Cardiovascular disease
- • Pulmonary disease
Factors that Increase Distance
- • Taller height
- • Male gender
- • Younger age
- • Higher muscle mass
- • Increased motivation
- • Test familiarity
Test Guidelines
30-meter straight corridor
Exactly 6 minutes duration
Comfortable walking shoes
Standardized encouragement
Understanding the 6 Minute Walk Test
What is the 6MWT?
The 6 Minute Walk Test is a submaximal exercise test that measures the distance a person can walk in 6 minutes. It reflects the capacity to perform everyday activities and is used to assess functional status, response to therapy, and prognosis.
Clinical Applications
- •Assessment of functional capacity
- •Monitoring response to treatment
- •Prognosis in cardiopulmonary conditions
- •Pre-operative assessment
Advantages of 6MWT
Simplicity
Easy to perform and understand
Cost-Effective
Requires minimal equipment
Standardized
Consistent protocols available
Low Burden
Suitable for elderly and frail patients
Conditions Affecting 6MWT
- • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- • Heart failure
- • Pulmonary hypertension
- • Arthritis and musculoskeletal disorders
- • Neuromuscular diseases
Important Medical Disclaimer
This 6 Minute Walk Test calculator is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical evaluation. The test should be performed under appropriate medical supervision when used for clinical assessment.
Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals for:
- Clinical interpretation of test results
- Determining appropriateness of testing
- Managing underlying medical conditions
- Exercise prescription and limitations
Contraindications and precautions: The 6MWT should not be performed in patients with unstable angina, recent myocardial infarction, or other acute conditions. Proper medical screening is essential before testing.