Normative Reference Values For 6 Minute Step Test in Healthy Individuals: An Observational Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Exercise capacity plays an essential role in determining quality of life in both disease & health. Field tests can be used to determine aerobic capacity since they are easy to perform. The step test is another exercise test that can be used to assess aerobic capacity. An alternative to 6MWT is 6-minute step test which is a self-paced test. The 6-minute step test (6MST) requires less time and space to be performed and might be used as an alternative to assess exercise capacity in primary care. Materials and methodology: 300 healthy participants of both genders were included. Each participant performed a 6-minute step test on a 20 cm high wooden step. The participants were instructed to walk up and down the step as much as possible within the time duration. Individuals with neuromuscular, orthopedic, or cardiopulmonary diseases were excluded from study. Pre & post vitals such as heart rate & SPO2 were recorded. The steps were counted by the therapist. Results: The included participants were divided by age range, in years: 20-29 (n= 60), 30-39 (n=54), 40-49 (n=51), 50-59 (n=51), 60-69 (n=44), 70-80 (n=40). The normality of the data was assessed using Shapiro-wilk test. The mean number of steps climbed during the 6MST for men and women in the age group of 20-80 years was 139±27 & 137±24 respectively. The difference in the number of steps according to the age group was found to be statistically significant (p<0.001). Difference in the number of steps according to the gender was also seen(p<0.05). Conclusion: These normative reference values for 6 MST found in our study will help determine & compare deviations from these norms. The study found that number of steps decreased as the age advanced, younger adults performed better than older adults & men performed better than women. Key words: 6-minute step test, exercise tolerance test, Normative values, field test, fitness testing