The normal average walking speed for an adult typically ranges between 1.2 and 1.4 meters per second (m/s).
Understanding Normal Walking Speed
Walking speed, often referred to as gait speed, is a fundamental measure in various fields, including health and exercise science. To ensure consistency and adhere to international measurement standards, it is generally expressed in meters per second (m/s).
Typical Adult Walking Speeds
For healthy adults, the collective range for a normal walking speed falls within a specific bracket. This range represents the speed at which most adults comfortably and efficiently ambulate.
| Metric | Speed Range | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Normal Adult Walking Speed | 1.2 - 1.4 | m/s |
Importance of Measurement Units
While meters per second (m/s) is the internationally recognized standard for expressing gait speed, other units may be used depending on the context. For instance, some reports express walking speeds in meters per minute (m/min), often for compatibility with measurements related to energy expenditure or walking cadence. However, for a standardized and universal understanding, m/s remains the preferred unit.
