1/2 Mile Walking Test
The half mile (880 yards, 805 meters) walk test is part of the AAHPERD Functional Fitness Protocol, and is designed to test the aerobic fitness of the elderly. It is an variation of the Walk / Run Endurance Test.
test purpose: This test measures aerobic fitness in the unfit and elderly.
equipment required: marked athletics track, or a field and measuring tape to mark out the distances, stopwatch
pre-test: Explain the test procedures to the subject. Perform screening of health risks and obtain informed consent. Prepare forms and record basic information such as age, height, body weight, gender, test conditions. Measure and mark out the test area. Perform an appropriate warm-up. See more details of pre-test procedures.
procedure: The aim of this test is to walk as quickly as possible for 880 yards. An athletics track or field is marked out for the appropriate distance. Participants are to set their own pace (a preliminary trail is useful to practice pacing), and are able to stop for a rest if they desire.
scoring: measure the time to cover the half mile distance, in minutes and seconds
target population: the aged population which may not be able to do traditional fitness tests.
advantages: minimal equipment and costs involved.
disadvantages: this test is too easy for the highly fit person. One of the longer running tests would be better suited.
other comments: The test should be terminated if the examined person reports dizziness, nausea, excessive fatigue, pain, or if the examiner notices any other symptoms of concern. The examiners should be trained in recognizing these symptoms and the necessary action plan should be in place in case of medical emergencies.
The Test in Action
- This test is part of the AAHPERD Functional Fitness Protocol.
Similar Tests
- Procedure for the General Walk / Run test
- Endurance Run / Walk (1 mile)
- 1-Mile Walk Test
- 1000m (1km) Run Test
- 1.5km run test
- 1.6 km (1 mile) Run
Related Pages
- Read the Walk / Run Test Review page for a overview of the walk and run tests.
- More aerobic fitness tests
- Read a discussion about testing the elderly
- All about the AAHPERD Functional Fitness Test
- Fitness tests involving walking
- Read about Fitness Testing for Specific Groups and Special Populations
Any comments, suggestions, or corrections? Please let us know.
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