The step test may be an alternative to replace the six-minute walk test when there is not enough space to perform the walk test; however, there are few data in the literature comparing and correlating both tests and their interferences in physical abilities. This study aims to correlate the six-minute walk test with the step test. The sample comprised 38 active seniors (68.5 ± 2.1 years old). The six-minute walk test and the step test were randomly performed twice each and the highest value obtained for each test was taken into consideration. Heart rate, perceived exertion, perceived muscle fatigue and estimated VO2max at the end of the step test were significantly higher than in the end of the six-minute walk test (p=0.001; 0.010; 0.017; 0.001, respectively). There was no correlation between the distance in the walk test and the number of ascents and descents in the step test. Thus it cannot be stated that a test can replace the other, but taking into account the statistically higher values for the step test variables, besides the fact that the step test requires minimum physical space, this test can be an alternative to assess elderly people.
Elderly; Walking; Exercise Test; Step Test; Health of the Elderly
