Cardio-respiratory exercise test

What is it?

• A complete assessment of how efficient your body is at using oxygen to produce energy. Also how efficient your heart and lungs are when you exercise
• ECG, respiration and blood pressure are measured during exercise together with heart, lung and muscular efficiencies
• Aerobic fitness (VO2 max) is measured by estimating your maximum oxygen uptake
• The test is performed on a special exercise bike
• It is not a test to exhaustion - the test stops at 85 percent of maximum heart rate. Most people are easily able to manage this
• The test typically lasts anywhere between four and 20 minutes, depending on your fitness level
• The exercise ECG is reviewed and reported on by a consultant cardiologist

Health implications

• Aerobic fitness is associated with good health, and the higher your fitness level, the better your health is likely to be
• The information gained enables us to suggests what intensity and type of exercise might be best for you
• The exercise test can help to identify coronary artery disease