An Exercise ECG, otherwise known as an Exercise Tolerance Test or an ETT, is a test that monitors your heart while it is put under stress, normally on a treadmill. The treadmill will increase in both incline and speed every three minutes, starting at a walk and may involve a light jog by the final stage. The increments will continue until one has reached their maximum heart rate, standardised as 220 – your age. Once exercise has stopped, monitoring will continue until your heart rate returns to normal.

Your blood pressure and ECG will be carefully monitored before, during and after the test to assess your response to exercise, and ensure your wellbeing is maintained throughout.

Once you have completed your recovery period, the report will be completed by our consultant cardiologist with a conclusion including any abnormalities noted during the test.

We recommend that you do not drink alcohol, eat, or smoke for four hours before the test and wear comfortable shoes, trainers, gym gear or loose clothing.