Treadmill Exercise Cardiology What is a Treadmill Exercise Test? A treadmill exercise test involves walking on a treadmill with continuous ECG and blood pressure monitoring. The test will take approximately an hour including preparation and post-test recovery. What is the purpose of this test? A treadmill exercise test will assess the response of your heart to exercise or stress. It is a well proven and non-invasive method to assess ischemic heart disease (blocked heart arteries), to determine a person’s fitness level and detect exercise-induced irregular heart rhythms.
Preparation before the test 1. Avoid heavy meals 2 hours before the test. 2. Wear comfortable exercise attire and shoes. 3. Medications that slows down the heart rate (e.g. atenolol, bisoprolol, diltiazem), should be omitted 1 to 2 days prior to the test. Please check with your doctor. 4. Please reschedule your test if you are unwell e.g. flu, fever 5. Male patients are required to shave their chest hair. How is the test done? ECG electrodes will be placed on your chest for ECG and blood pressure cuff on your arm for monitoring throughout the test. You are required to exercise on the treadmill machine and the speed and gradient will increase every three minutes.