Estimating maximum work rate during incremental cycle ergometry testing from six-minute walk distance in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Hill K, Jenkins SC, Cecins N, Philippe DL, Hillman DR, Eastwood PR.

The authors of this study set out to develop a predictive equation which would allow estimation of the maximum work rate (Wmax) achieved during an incremental cycle ergometry test from the measurement of 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) and its derivative, 6-minute walk work, which is the product of 6MWD and body weight.

They found that Wmax could be estimated from equations based on measurements of 6MWD or 6-minute walk work. The estimate of Wmax derived from either equation could provide a basis on which to prescribe cycle ergometry training work rates that comply with the current guidelines for pulmonary rehabilitation

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. 2008;89(9):1782-7

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