6 minute walk

[Semibreve40]

Do not seem to be able to get much faster no matter what I do. Sometimes distance is better in the morning and others distance is better I the afternoon. I will be 80 at the end of the year, so maybe that has something to do with it.

[Rennschnecke]

Hi Semibreve, if you want to increase your speed you could try one of two things: (1) increase the speed at which you move your legs; (2) increase the distance covered in each step. I don’t know what you are able to do, but switching from a comfortable walking pace to doing one of these then switch back and continuing to keep doing these intervals may help. The time spent in the change is one that is challenging but does not hurt, e.g. 10s to 1 min. It will feel strange, so it takes a few weeks to see whether it helps.

Of course, you may already be walking as fast as you can without jogging. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[Dr_Lou_EXI Administrator EXI Staff]

Hi Semibreve40 Well done on regularly doing the 6 minute walk test, it is a great way to track your progress. I would definitely say that at nearly 80 maintaining your current activity and fitness levels is a win, even if you are not getting any faster. My Dad is in his late 70s and finds it hard to keep up with his grandchildren on a walk, but he always gets there in the end, so stamina is as important as speed.

As well as some good advice from Rennschnecke you can try, you can also try some strength training exercises for your legs to build a little more muscle, and doing yoga and stretching can increase both mobility and stability, which are important for walking. But overall, just keep walking, you're doing great 👏