The Physiologic Cost Index of walking (PCI) is a measure of the energy cost of walking, especially in children. It can be used to evaluate walking in handicapped children
Parameters:
(1) heart rate at rest in beats per minute
(2) heart rate when walking in beats per minute
(3) walking speed in meters per minute
PCI =
= ((heart rate when walking) - (heart rate at rest)) / (walking speed)
Interpretation:
• A low PCI indicates an energy-efficient gait.
• For children 3 to 12 years of age walking at preferred gait speed (freely chosen walking speed) have a PCI between 0.38 (walking barefoot) and 0.40 (walking with shoes) beats per meter (Butler et al, page 609).
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