The Six-Minute Walk Test

The Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) is a simple exercise used to assess a person's walking endurance and overall fitness. During the test, a person walks at their own pace for six minutes along a designated area, usually a flat hallway. The distance they cover is measured to evaluate their physical capabilities. This test helps healthcare providers understand how well a person's heart, lungs, and muscles work together during activity. It's commonly used for individuals with respiratory or cardiac conditions, but can also be a useful measure of overall health and functional capacity in various populations.