Reference Equations for the Six-Minute Walk Test in Healthy Adults in Southwestern Colombia: a Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction. The six-minute walk test (6MWT) is a submaximal test to assess functional capacity for exercise. In Colombia, the distance of the 6MWT is compared with those predicted by reference equations from other countries. Besides, pedometric measurements have not been included in the test. Objective. To establish reference values for the distance walked in the six-minute walk test (6MWT) and the equation according to sex in healthy people in the southwestern Colombia. Methods. Observational, cross-sectional, and correlational study. There were 336 volunteers, 227 males, with no history of respiratory disease, cardiovascular disease, or comorbidities limiting gait. Subjects performed the 6MWT twice on the same day in the morning, 30 minutes apart. The pedometer was placed at the starting point; the laps, meters, and number of steps in each test were recorded, selecting the one with the best distance. Linear regression was performed to obtain the reference equations by sex, according to age, weight, height, and number of steps. The R2 was used as a measure of adjustment. Results. The distance walked was greater in males compared to females (616.7 [p25-75: 566.1-657.0] vs 588.0 [p25-75: 544.5-640.0]; p = 0.008). Two equations were obtained by sex, for females with R2 = 0.54 and males with R2 = 0.42. Conclusion. The distance walked in 6MWT in Colombian subjects was more remarkable in males than females. Height and steps were the most significant predictors of the 6MWT length in the regression equations for females and males, with R2 of 0.54 and 0.42, respectively.