Biomarker
Gait Speed
Last updated Sat May 30 2026 00:00:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)
Observational— Survival prediction validated across multiple cohorts
Why a single test predicts so well
Walking integrates multiple physiological systems: cardiopulmonary, musculoskeletal, neurological (including cognitive), and metabolic. Gait speed is a system-level health indicator.
In Studenski et al. 2011 (>34,000 older adults), gait speed predicted survival similarly to age and sex combined — an 80-year-old man with gait speed 1.2 m/s had survival probability comparable to a 70-year-old average.
Other clinical predictions
- Hospitalisation risk.
- Disability incidence.
- Post-surgical complication risk.
- Cognitive decline incidence.
- Cardiovascular events.
Interventions
- Resistance training (especially hip and quadriceps).
- Balance training.
- Aerobic training.
- Addressing pain and joint dysfunction.
- Treating cardiopulmonary contributors.
- Reducing polypharmacy.
DIY measurement
Mark 4 m and walk it at usual pace, timed from when you start. Divide 4 by seconds for m/s. Do three trials; report the median.
Related entries
References
- Studenski, S. et al. Gait speed and survival in older adults. JAMA 305, 50–58 (2011).