Normative Values of the Modified Shuttle Walk Test on Walking Distance and Ventilatory Parameters in Healthy Young Individuals: A Cross Sectional Study

This study is a cross-sectional observational study conducted to determine the normative values of walking distance and ventilatory parameters in healthy young adults using the Modified Shuttle Walk Test (MSWT). The MSWT is a standardized and practical functional exercise test that assesses submaximal exercise capacity by measuring walking distance along with physiological responses such as heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, blood pressure, and rate of perceived exertion.

The study will be carried out at Datta Meghe College of Physiotherapy, Datta Meghe Medical College, and Datta Meghe College of Nursing over a duration of 1.5 years. A total sample size of 384 healthy individuals aged 18–25 years will be recruited using convenient sampling. Participants will be screened based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria to ensure they are free from cardiovascular, respiratory, musculoskeletal, or metabolic disorders.

Baseline vital parameters including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation will be recorded before the test. Participants will then perform the Modified Shuttle Walk Test on a 10-meter course following standardized auditory signals.Post-test walking distance, ventilatory parameters, and rate of perceived exertion (Borg CR10 scale) will be documented.

The collected data will be statistically analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis (Spearman’s coefficient), Student’s t-test, and chi-square test where applicable. The findings of this study aim to establish reference normative values for walking distance and ventilatory responses in healthy individuals, which will help clinicians interpret MSWT results more accurately in patients with cardiopulmonary and musculoskeletal conditions.