Exercise ECG

An exercise ECG, also called a heart or exercise stress test, is a type of electro cardiogram (ECG). This common test looks at how your heart works when you’re exercising.

Why you would have an exercise ECG

You may have an exercise ECG to find out if you have coronary heart disease. The test shows whether your heart muscle is getting enough blood from the coronary arteries during physical activity.

An exercise ECG can look into symptoms of heart problems, such as:

• chest pain
• heart palpitations
• dizziness
• shortness of breath.

You may be asked to have an exercise ECG after having a procedure, such as a coronary angioplasty. This is to check the blood flow to your heart.

Preparing for an exercise ECG

You can prepare for your test, and feel more comfortable by:

• wearing light, comfortable clothes and shoes (trainers are best)
• avoiding a heavy meal or caffeine for two to three hours before the test
• avoiding smoking for eight hours before the test.

You may be asked to stop taking certain medicines before your test, your doctor will explain this to you.

During an exercise ECG

The test usually takes around 15 minutes, and you won’t feel any pain. 

1. Sticky patches (electrodes) are put on your shoulders and chest and connected to a machine (ECG recorder).
2. You will be asked to walk on the treadmill or cycle on an indoor exercise bike, starting off at a slow, comfortable pace.
3. The test will get gradually harder by increasing the speed on the bike or how steep the treadmill is.
4. You will be encouraged to work as hard as you can. Tell the healthcare professional if you have chest pain, discomfort, feel too tired or very short of breath and the test can be stopped. You won't be asked to do anything that feels too difficult for you. 
5. You will be carefully monitored throughout the test and told when to stop.

Results of an exercise ECG

You can go home once your heart rate has returned to normal and you’ve got your breath back.

The results will be sent to your doctor who will talk to you about them. You may wait a few days to a few weeks to get your test results.

Many people feel worried or anxious during this time. There is no right or wrong way to deal with these feelings, everyone is different. Continuing with everyday activities, such as going to work or spending time with loved ones or pets can be a welcome distraction. You may find it helpful to talk with your partner, family or a close friend.

More information and support

If you need more information or just want to talk to someone, we’re here for you:

• read our booklet on tests for heart conditions
• watch our videos on heart tests
• talk to one of our cardiac nurses by calling our Heart Helpline.