[Effects of gender and socioeconomic status of older people on the execution of the 6 minute walk test].

Background: The six minute walk test (6MWT) is an important physical performance measure used in older people.

Aim: To assess the total distance walked and the physiological cost of the 6MWT in non-disabled older people.

Material And Methods: Fifty six females aged 69 ± 5 years with a body mass index (BMI) of 31 ± 4 kg/m² and sixteen males aged 70 ± 7 years with a BIM of 29 ± 4 kg/m² underwent a 6MWT.