European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

SIX MINUTE WALK DISTANCE AND SIX MINUTE WALK WORK IN NORMALWEIGHT AND OBESE YOUNG ADULTS

Hina Vaish*, Princi Anchal and Akash Verma

ABSTRACT

Background: The six minute walk test (6MWT) is an example of a functional walk test that is practical and simple and only requires the ability to walk. The outcome of the 6MWT can also be expressed in terms of six minute walk work (6MWw) which is the product of body weight and 6MWD. Objectives: The study aimed to compare six minute walk distance (6MWD) and six minute walk work between normal weight and obese, to identify the determinants of 6MWD in normal weight and obese subjects. Method: After initial assessment 6MWT was conducted in 204 subjects (18-30 yrs), 102 normal weight and 102 obese subjects on a 30 m flat hard surface. 6MWw was calculated by: 6MWw (Kgm) = 6MWD (m) X Body Weight (kg). Results: 6MWD (m) in normal subjects was 867.41 ± 138.86 and in obese subjects was 785.39 ± 53.41. 6MWw (Kgm) in normal subjects was 40702.93 ± 11806.93 and in obese subjects was 67383.96±9273.87. Significant differences in 6MWD; 6MWw between normal weight and obese subjects were found. The determinants of 6MWD in normal subjects were gender and height. In obese subjects were BMI, gender and height were the determinants. Conclusions: It is important to consider factors influencing 6MWD in different weight categories, it will help in individualizing program for subjects of different stature.

Keywords: Six minute walk distance, body weight, six minute walk work, functional capacity, obesity.