Validation of the 6-Minute Frame Running Test as a Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test for Adolescents and Young Adults With Cerebral Palsy

Background: Individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) are at risk of poor health due to low aerobic fitness, yet valid assessment methods are limited, especially for individuals with severe CP. This study validated the 6-Minute Frame Running Test (6-MFRT) for assessing aerobic capacity in adolescents and young adults with CP. Method: Cardiorespiratory responses, blood lactate levels, and subjective exertion during the 6-MFRT were compared with data from the Frame Running Incremental Treadmill Test (FRITT) in 16 participants with CP, age 23 (6.5) years, with Gross Motor Function Classification System Levels II–V. Results: A strong correlation was found between peak oxygen uptake (VO₂peak) in the 6-MFRT and FRITT (r = .95, p < .001) and between 6-MFRT distance and VO₂peak (r = .71, p = .005). No significant difference in VO₂peak was observed between tests (p = .186). Conclusion: The 6-MFRT is a field test for estimating aerobic capacity in frame-running athletes with CP.