The Six Minute Walk Test: Influence of Instruction on Results

Alternative Instruction in Six Minute Walk Test (6MWT)

Two - four 6MWT performed according to ATS standards. Each walk however had specifically altered wording and coaching performed in random order to determine differences in outcomes. One walk was done in the standard ATS fashion. One was done coaching to walk as fast as the patient can walk. One was coached to walk at the patients normal walking pace. One was coached to walk at the patient's leisure walking pace.

Alternate 6MWT where subjects will be asked to walk as fast as they can, walk as normal as they can and walk leisurely as they can in 6 minutes compared to standard of care 6MWT which is walk as far as you can in 6 minutes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• advanced lung disease such as COPD, ILD, IPF, or PAH

Exclusion Criteria:

• inability to walk, requiring supplemental oxygen, cardiac disease preventing successful 6MWT