How to use this calculator
- Walk 4 metres at your usual pace and time it.
- Enter age, sex, distance and time.
- Compare your speed with typical values for your age.
How it works
Speed is compared with average comfortable gait speeds for older adults by age and sex (Bohannon 2011). Speeds under 1.0 m/s are linked with higher fall and frailty risk; under 0.8 m/s with reduced mobility.
Reading your result
| Over 1.0 m/s and near norm | On track |
|---|---|
| 0.8 to 1.0 m/s | Needs attention |
| Under 0.8 m/s | Needs a plan |
Physiotherapy treatment
Gait and endurance training is the core of physiotherapy for reduced mobility. After an assessment, your physiotherapist sets a plan built around progressive walking, progressed as your results improve. Hands-on treatment, pain relief and education are added where they help.
Exercises this calculator may recommend
Your result decides which of these appear, and at what dose.
Medical note
Calculators give estimates for general guidance and do not diagnose any condition. Stop and seek medical help for chest pain, fainting, sudden weakness or numbness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or severe or rapidly worsening pain. Always follow your surgeon's or doctor's instructions over any calculator.