6 Minute Walk Test Calculator

Interpret Your Six Minute Walk Distance

The six minute walk test (6MWT) measures how far a person can walk in six minutes. This calculator compares your walked distance with age, sex, height, and weight adjusted predictions and shows percent of expected distance. It helps track pulmonary and cardiac functional capacity in clinic or rehab settings. Pair results with the BMI Calculator and Max Heart Rate Calculator for broader fitness context.

Predicted Distance Formulas

Predicted six minute walk distance (6MWD) uses published regression equations that differ for males and females. The tool also computes a lower limit of normal by subtracting a fixed margin from the predicted value.

$$\text{male predicted 6MWD} = 7.57h - 5.02a - 1.76w - 309$$

$$\text{female predicted 6MWD} = 2.11h - 2.29w - 5.78a + 667$$

Where $h$ is height in centimeters, $a$ is age in years, and $w$ is weight in kilograms. Distance is in meters.

How to Use Walk Test Results

Percent of predicted distance shows functional reserve. Values below the lower limit of normal may indicate reduced exercise tolerance. Repeat testing over time can show improvement after treatment or pulmonary rehabilitation.