Gait speed, how fast someone walks

Gait speed

Gait speed is how fast a person walks over a set distance. It sounds basic, but it tells us a lot about strength, balance and overall recovery.

This matters because walking speed tends to rise as a person gets stronger and steadier. A comfortable pace also makes crossing a room or a road safer and less tiring.

Our physiotherapist watches how walking speed changes as therapy goes on. A steady improvement is a clear, honest sign that the plan is working, and it guides what we focus on next. When speed stalls, we look at what is holding it back.