Why This Question Matters

Mobility decline is a central public health challenge in aging societies, closely linked to disability, reduced quality of life, and increasing long-term care needs. However, in routine health checkups, objective physical performance testing is often constrained by time, space, and manpower, making early detection difficult. Walking speed is recognized as a “functional vital sign,” yet direct measurement is not always feasible at scale. Identifying practical alternatives that fit within existing screening systems is therefore essential.

What We Examined

In our recent study published in Scientific Reports, we examined whether subjective walking speed—a simple self-reported question routinely used in Japanese health checkups—is associated with the severity of locomotive syndrome (LS). We analyzed data from 34,935 adults undergoing medical checkups, with LS severity assessed using standardized LS risk tests, including the GLFS-25, the two-step test, the stand-up test, and total assessment, while adjusting for demographic factors, lifestyle habits, and comorbidities.

What We Found

Adults who reported subjectively slow walking speed had significantly higher odds of having LS, particularly moderate-to-severe LS. These associations remained robust after multivariable adjustment and were consistent across age groups. Notably, the strength of association increased with LS severity, suggesting that subjective walking speed reflects both early functional change and more advanced mobility impairment.

Public Health Implications

Our findings highlight a practical opportunity for preventive medicine. Subjective walking speed requires no equipment, additional space, or examiner training, making it suitable for population-based screening. When used as an initial signal and followed by LS risk tests, it can support a stepwise screening strategy that enables earlier identification of individuals at risk and timely intervention to prevent further mobility decline.

Why This Matters Beyond Japan

Although the concept of locomotive syndrome originated in Japan, the challenges it addresses are universal. Aging populations worldwide face similar issues related to mobility loss and healthcare sustainability. This study demonstrates how a simple self-reported measure already embedded in routine health checkups can be leveraged as an early warning signal for mobility decline across different healthcare settings.

An Invitation to Use and Collaborate

We hope this work encourages clinicians, researchers, and public health professionals to reconsider the value of simple self-reported measures in mobility screening. If you are interested in applying LS concepts, using subjective walking speed in health checkups, or collaborating in mobility research, we warmly invite you to join the discussion.