Comparing the 6-minute Walk Test Performance and Estimated Maximal Oxygen Consumption Between Physically Active and Inactive Obese Young Adults

Physical inactivity and a decline in cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) are well-known risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, evidence suggests a correlation between obesity and diminished CRF level. However, the influence of physical activity (PA) on the CRF level of obese young adults remains unclear. The aim of this study is to compare the performance of the six-minute walk test (6MWT) in physically active and inactive obese young adults aged 18-25 years. Fifty-six participants were included and classified into two groups based on their level of PA, assessed using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ). These groups consisted of physically active obese participants (PAO; n = 28) and physically inactive obese participants (PIO; n = 28). All participants underwent a 6MWT, during which baseline demographic, anthropometric, dyspnea, and clinical data were recorded. Following the 6MWT, clinical data and the 6-min walking distance (6MWD) were evaluated, and the estimated maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) was subsequently calculated. The findings indicated that following the 6MWT, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, oxygen saturation and dyspnea (all p > 0.05). Nevertheless, the PAO group exhibited a greater 6MWD and VO2max compared to the PIO group (p < 0.05). The results suggest that physically active obese young adults have a greater 6MWD and VO2max compared to their inactive counterparts. This implies that consistent PA could provide cardiovascular fitness benefits for obese individuals.