The Effects of Guarding on the Outcomes of the Six Minute Walk Test

Introduction: The American Thoracic Society recommends not walking with the patient or client during the Six Minute Walk Test (6MWT). However, this recommendation raises safety concerns for individuals at increased risk of falls. Given the recommendations and concerns, the effects of guarding during the 6MWT has not been investigated. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine if guarding during the 6MWT affected gait speed and distance walked. Methods: Participants were randomized into a 'guarded first' vs 'guarded second' condition. Data were analyzed using a one-sample t-test, Pearson Correlation Coefficients, Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC), and Bland Altman plots to assess differences and relationships for gait speed and distance walked between the guarded and unguarded trials.