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6-minute walk test: updates in recommendations and procedure
6-minute walk test: updates in recommendations and procedure
Erika Meneses-Tamayo 1, 2 
, Florisel Almonte-Mora 1 , Ireri Thirión-Romero 1 , Luis Torre-Bouscoulet 3 , Adela Durán-Cuellar 1 , Isabel Salas-Escamilla 1 , Rogelio Pérez-Padilla 1 , Laura Gochicoa-Rangel 1
1 Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias Ismael Cosío Villegas, Ciudad de México, México; 2 Hospital General de México Dr. Eduardo Liceaga, Ciudad de México, México; 3 Instituto de Desarrollo e Innovación en Fisiología Respiratoria, INFIRE. Ciudad de México, México
*Correspondence: Laura Gochicoa-Rangel. Email: drgochis@gmail.com
Abstract
The 6-Minute Walk (6MWT) is a standardized, submaximal exercise test intended to measure the maximum distance an individual can walk at their own pace in a flat hallway in six minutes. The 6MWT objectively evaluates an individual’s exercise capacity. It is used in the diagnostic evaluation and during follow-up, providing prognostic information and response to treatment in different types of diseases. The 6MWT is a safe test that rarely presents complications. It is suggested to perform continuous monitoring of oxygen saturation and heart rate to assess the effort made by the patient throughout the test. In addition to measuring the sensation of dyspnea and fatigue according to the Borg Scale, since they reflect the impact of the symptoms on daily life. In this review, the 6MWT recommendations and procedure are updated, and practical recommendations for their interpretation are issued.
Keywords: 6-minute walk test. Lung function test. Submaximal test.
