PHYSIOLOGY OF 1-MILE WALK TEST IN OLDER ADULTS

This study examined the physiology of the 1-mile walk test as administ ered 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 (T M) 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 14 0 +/- 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 wh ile VO2 remained constant throughout the MWT. The MWT with older subje cts requires a vigorous level of metabolic and cardiorespiratory inten sity. For healthy older adults who have been properly screened for hid den metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, participation in the MWT ap pears feasible.