[A simple method of evaluating physical fitness by means of walking]

Abstract

Background: Walking is at present the most frequently used means for purposes of rehabilitation as well as for maintenance or promotion of physical fitness. Recently we encounter with increasing frequency the use of walking as a diagnostic method for assessment of physical fitness under field conditions. The basis are motor tests of 1000 to 2000 m. The purpose of the submitted study was to prepare tables for the evaluation of the fitness level, using the 2000 m walking test and our standards of fitness.

Methods and results: The basis of the majority of evaluations of the fitness level based on the motor test are relations between the intensity of motor activity and the maximal oxygen consumption. Using general relations between the average walking speed in the 2000 m test and the maximal oxygen consumption assessed on a treadmill in non-trained healthy men and women and base on our population standards (VO2max.kg-1) tables were elaborated. The fitness level is evaluated using the average walking speed in the 2000 m test and the appropriate maximal oxygen consumption. The tables have three grades and make it possible to evaluate men and women aged 14-65 years.

Conclusions: The average speed in the 2000 m walking test makes it possible to evaluate by means of tables the physical fitness level in non-trained healthy subjects, provided the walking style is not of the racing type. The error of the estimate of physical fitness is about 15%.