Six Minute Walk Test
A six minute walk test measures how far you can walk on a flat surface for exactly six minutes.
What is a six minute walk test?
Why do I need a six minute walk test?
What are the risks of having a six minute walk test?
How do I prepare for a six minute walk test?
What happens during a six minute walk test?
What happens after a six minute walk test?
What is a six minute walk test?
A six minute walk test measures how far you can walk on a flat surface for exactly six minutes.
Why do I need a six minute walk test?
A six minute walk test can help your doctor to find out:
- How your heart and lungs respond to exercise
- Your general fitness
- If you’re coping with your daily activities
Your doctor can use your test results to:
- Work out how well you are
- Adjust your current treatment
- Plan a healthy exercise program for you
What are the risks of having a six minute walk test?
Risks are very rare, and a nurse or physiotherapist will be supervising you during your test. If you’re worried about taking this test, discuss your concerns with your doctors. They may be able to provide a different type of test for you.
How do I prepare for a six minute walk test?
In order to prepare for your six minute walk test, you’ll need to:
- Dress in comfortable clothes
- Wear comfortable shoes - ideally runners or shoes meant for walking
- Use a cane or walker if you normally need them
- Eat a light meal before early morning or afternoon tests
- Avoid strenuous exercise 2 hours before your test
What happens during a six minute walk test?
The six minute walk test is done inside a room at your doctor’s offices or hospital, along a marked walkway.
During your test:
- Your goal is to walk as far as you can - in six minutes
- If you need to stop at any time, you can rest against the wall - and start walking again as soon as you’re ready
- Your oxygen levels will be monitored - with a small probe that’s attached to your finger
- A nurse or physiotherapist will record your time - and how far you walk
The test may be stopped if:
- You ask to stop for any reason - you feel exhausted or are in pain
- The nurse or physiotherapist is concerned - if you show weakness, or severe shortness of breath
What happens after a six minute walk test?
When your test is finished, the nurse or physiotherapist will talk to you about your results. Your doctor will also be given a copy of your results and will schedule a follow-up appointment with you to discuss your ongoing care.