Walking speed as predictor of health

Walking speed is a key indicator of overall health and mobility. It is a useful measure like blood pressure for predicting well-being and based on the score provides insight into treatment strategies. Normal walking speed for a health adult is 1.2-1.4m/s or 2.7-3.1mph.

Walking speed reflects both functional and physiological changes, is a discriminating factor in determining potential for rehabilitation, and aids in prediction of falls and fear of falling. Furthermore, progression of WS has been linked to clinical meaningful changes in quality of life and in home and community walking behavior. Walking speed is one standardized measure that can be quickly and easily incorporated into the PT examination/evaluation process.

Physical therapists, as specialists in movement and function, can use WS as a practical and informative functional sixth “vital sign” for all patients; examining walking speed in the same way that we routinely monitor blood pressure, pulse, respiration, temperature, and pain.

Fritz S, Lusardi M. White paper: walking speed: the sixth vital sign. Geriatric Assessment Tool KIt. https://geriatrictoolkit.missouri.edu. Published 2009. Accessed September 13, 2025.