Abstract
The modified incremental step test (MIST) is a portable, low-cost, easy-to-run test to assess functional capacity.
- The MIST has been used to assess functional capacity in several health conditions.
Normative values are now available for the MIST, facilitating its interpretation in clinical practice.
Abstract
Objective
To establish normative values and reference equations for predicting the number of steps and oxygen consumption (VO2) from the modified incremental step test (MIST) in healthy adults aged 18–83 years.
Design
Prospective observational study.
Participants
One hundred and ninety-four healthy adults aged 18–83 years with normal spirometry.
Settings
Exercise physiology laboratory of a university.
Methods
Participants underwent two MISTs (30 minutes apart). The MIST was performed on a 20-cm-high step using an externally paced rhythm imposed by audible signals, starting with 10 steps per minute and with constant increments of 1 step every 30 seconds.
Main outcomes
Number of steps and VO2 obtained from MIST.
Results
Normative values were provided for males and females for each age group. The following equations were determined: number of steps = 675.113 + (66.165*sex, 0 female and 1 male) - (5.353*age) - (6.593*body mass index) (R² =0.44, P < 0.001); VO2 = 0.106 + (0.216*sex, 0 female and 1 male) - (0.008*age [years]) + (0.021*weight [kilograms]) + (0.001*number of steps) (R² =0.80, P < 0.001).
Conclusion
Normative values and prediction equations are proposed for the number of steps and VO2 which can be used to interpret performance on the MIST in individuals with different health conditions. These equations now need validation in other samples.