Shuttle walking test in obese women: test-retest reliability and concurrent validity with peak oxygen uptake

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the test-retest reliability, concurrent validity and agreement with peak oxygen uptake (VO2) obtained during cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX) on a treadmill for the incremental shuttle walking test (ISWT) in obese women. MethodsProspective study with a convenient sample of 46 community-dwelling obese women (BMI>30kgm(-2)). The main outcome measures were walking distance on the ISWT and peak VO2. ResultsTest-retest reliability was good to excellent for the exercise tests (ISWT distance ICC: 090; and CPX peak VO2 ICC: 090). Peak VO2 obtained during CPX correlated significantly with ISWT distance (r=054, P<005) and peak VO2 obtained during the ISWT (r=064, P<005). Bland and Altman plots demonstrated a high degree of repeatability. ConclusionThe ISWT had excellent reliability as well as good concurrent validity and agreement. The ISWT may be a potential tool for monitoring clinical status and intervention efficacy (e.g. programmes for weight loss and rehabilitative strategies) in this population.