What information can a gait pattern NOT reveal about a subject?

Gait patterns, which refer to the way a person walks, can provide various forms of information regarding an individual’s physical characteristics and external factors. However, they do not reliably indicate the person's sex. While there may be general trends in gait that can be associated with gender, they are not definitive due to overlapping characteristics among individuals. Therefore, while some studies suggest potential differences in gait between males and females, these are not consistent enough to serve as accurate indicators of a person's gender.

In contrast, height can influence stride length and the overall gait pattern, allowing for some deductions about a person's stature. Similarly, weight can affect how a person walks, as it can influence balance, energy expenditure, and stride characteristics. Furthermore, the type of shoes a person wears is often reflected in their gait, as footwear can alter foot mechanics and walking style significantly. Thus, while gait patterns provide insightful information, they do not serve as a reliable marker for identifying gender.