Energetics of walking in elderly people: Factors related to gait speed

Abstract

Background. Slow walking speed in elderly people predicts increased morbidity and mortality. We examined factors that may be associated with decreased habitual walking speed in older men and women. Methods. Older (range: 60-88 years, mean = 72.5 years) men (n = 25) and women (n = 24) were recruited. The Short Physical Performance Battery, body composition, VO2peak on a treadmill, VO2 and rated perceived exertion during 10 minutes of walking at habitual gait speed and at a walking speed of 0.9 m/s, muscle strength, and level of physical activity were measured. Results. VO 2peak was strongly related to habitual gait speed (r =. 744, p