PHYSIOLOGY OF 1-MILE WALK TEST IN OLDER ADULTS

This study examined the physiology of the 1-mile walk test as administered in the field with 16 (7 M, 9 F) older adults (mean age 66.1 +/- 5.9 yrs). Physiologic data were obtained via a Cosmed K2 miniaturized O-2 analyzer with telemetric capabilities during a maximal treadmill (TM) test and a 1-mile walk test (MWT). Oxygen consumption (ml . kg(-1) . min(-1)), minute ventilation (L . min(-1)), and heart rate (b . min(-1)) values obtained at maximal levels on the TM were 25.6 +/- 7.6, 57 +/- 17, and 155 +/- 16, respectively. The measured VO2 submax during the MWT was 18.5 +/- 5, V-E submax was 44 +/- 10, and HR submax was 140 +/- 19. The subjects were able to hold 74% of the VO(2)max, 81% of V(E)max, and 91% of HR max. An upward drift for HR and V-E was noted while VO2 remained constant throughout the MWT. The MWT with older subjects requires a vigorous level of metabolic and cardiorespiratory intensity. For healthy older adults who have been properly screened for hidden metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, participation in the MWT appears feasible.