The first reference equations for the 6-minute walk distance over a 10 m course. Issue 9 (24th April 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Beekman, Emmylou; Mesters, Ilse; Gosselink, Rik; Klaassen, Mariska P M; Hendriks, Erik J M; Van Schayck, Onno C P; de Bie, Rob A
• Is Part Of: Thorax. Volume 69:Issue 9(2014)
• Page Start: 867
• Page End: 868
• Publication Date: 2014-04-24
• Subjects: Clinical Epidemiology -- COPD Epidemiology -- Exercise -- Pulmonary Rehabilitation -- Systemic Disease and Lungs -- Emphysema -- Empyema -- Respiratory Measurement; Chest -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Thorax; Chest -- Diseases; Periodicals; Periodicals; 617.54
• DOI: 10.1136/thoraxjnl-2014-205228
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0040-6376

Abstract

Abstract : Rationale: As primary care practice space is mostly limited to 10 m, the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) over a 10 m course is a frequently used alternative to evaluate patients' performance in COPD. Considering that course length significantly affects distance walked in 6 minutes (6MWD), this study aims to develop appropriate reference equations for the 10 m 6MWT. Methods: 181 healthy subjects, aged 40–90 years, performed two standardised 6MWTs over a straight 10 m course in a cross-sectional study. Results: Average distance achieved was 578±108 m and differed between males and females (p<0.001). Resulting sex-specific reference equations from multiple regression analysis included age, body mass index and change in heart rate, explaining 62% of the variance in 6MWD for males and 71% for females. Conclusions: The presented reference equations are the first to evaluate 6MWD over a 10 m course and expand the usefulness of the 6MWT.