10 Metre Walk Test (TMWT)

Clinical intent

This workflow supports remote collection of 10 Metre Walk Test timings so clinicians can quantify walking speed as a simple functional mobility measure. The aim is to capture one required trial and up to two optional repeat trials, enabling an average gait speed estimate that can be trended over time within rehabilitation follow-up.

Target population

Adults or adolescents in rehabilitation pathways where gait speed monitoring is clinically relevant (for example neurology, musculoskeletal rehabilitation, and geriatric assessment), and who can safely attempt a short, straight-line walk test.

Method of use

The participant is asked to walk a measured 10-metre distance (marked start and finish lines). Time is recorded in seconds using a stopwatch. Up to three trials may be recorded; this workflow requires Trial 1 and allows optional Trial 2 and Trial 3.

Calculation

Using entered trial times, the workflow supports:

1. Mean time (seconds): arithmetic mean of all completed trials.
2. Mean gait speed (metres/second): total distance covered divided by total elapsed time.
3. Mean gait speed (kilometres/hour): mean metres/second multiplied by 3.6.

Worked example

If a 10-metre walk takes 7 seconds, gait speed is 10 / 7 = 1.43 m/s (rounded). Converted to km/h: 1.43 x 3.6 = 5.14 km/h (rounded).

Clinical interpretation

The resulting gait-speed metrics should be interpreted as part of a wider clinical assessment (for example strength, balance, falls risk, and neurological or musculoskeletal findings), rather than as a stand-alone diagnostic test.

References

1. Graham JE, Ostir GV, Fisher SR, Ottenbacher KJ. Assessing walking speed in clinical research: a systematic review. Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice. 2008;14(4):552-562.
2. Bohannon RW. Comfortable and maximum walking speed of adults aged 20-79 years: reference values and determinants. Age and Ageing. 1997;26(1):15-19.
3. Fritz S, Lusardi M. White paper: "Walking speed: the sixth vital sign". Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy. 2009;32(2):46-49.