Comparison of Cardiopulmonary Responses among Triangle, Square and Linear 6-Minute Walk Test in the Elderly

Abstract

The six-minute walk test is a common test for cardio-respiratory fitness assessment in the elderly because this test is easy and low cost for assessment. The limitation of the six-minute walk test is the test needs 30-meters walkway. But some places have not available space. Therefore, if the walkway changes from linear pattern to square or triangular pattern, it could be suitable for limited area. The objective of this study was to compare the six-minute walk distance and the cardio-respiratory response among triangular, square and linear in the elderly. There were 27 participants recruited with the aberage age of 68.89±5.98-year-old. They were assessed on balance, leg muscle strength and the six-minute walk test in triangular, square and linear walking pattern. The researcher recorded the walk distance and the cardio-respiratory response. This study showed that the six-minute walk distance and the cardio-respiratory response all three walking patterns in the elderly were not significantly different (p = 0.06). Thus, the triangular and square walking pattern can be applied in cases where space is limited