1. What is Walking Speed?

Walking speed is a measure of how fast someone is moving, calculated as the distance covered divided by the time taken. It's commonly expressed in meters per second (m/s) or kilometers per hour (km/h).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the basic speed formula:

Where:

• \( Distance \) — Distance traveled in meters
• \( Time \) — Time taken in seconds

Explanation: The equation calculates the average speed over the measured distance. For walking, typical speeds range from 0.8 to 1.4 m/s for healthy adults.

3. Importance of Walking Speed

Details: Walking speed is an important indicator of mobility, health status, and functional ability. It's often used in clinical settings to assess elderly patients and those with mobility impairments.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter distance in meters and time in seconds. For best results, measure over a known distance (e.g., 10 meters) and time accurately with a stopwatch.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal walking speed?
A: For healthy adults, normal walking speed ranges from 1.2 to 1.4 m/s. Elderly individuals typically walk at 0.8 to 1.0 m/s.

Q2: How can I convert m/s to km/h?
A: Multiply m/s by 3.6 to get km/h (1 m/s = 3.6 km/h).

Q3: Does walking speed vary with age?
A: Yes, walking speed generally decreases with age due to changes in muscle strength, balance, and joint flexibility.

Q4: What affects walking speed?
A: Factors include age, fitness level, health conditions, terrain, footwear, and walking purpose (leisure vs. exercise).

Q5: Why measure walking speed clinically?
A: It's a simple, reliable measure of functional mobility and predictor of health outcomes in older adults.