Exercise Tolerance Test (ETT) assesses the response of your heart to increased workload and demand for blood. This is achieved by recording the ECG whilst you are walking on a treadmill machine.

Once you start walking on the treadmill, your blood pressure, heart rate, general condition and ECG will be monitored continuously. After every 3 minutes the speed and incline of the treadmill will be increased. You will be encouraged to exercise for as long as you can and the test will be continued until you reach a desired heart rate and/or cannot exercise any more (usually 10 to 15 minutes). After the test, you will be asked to rest while your ECG and blood pressure are recorded and until your recordings reach the normal baseline heart rate. All the recordings will be analysed by a cardiologist (doctor with special training to treat heart related diseases).

How to prepare for the test?

• An advance appointment must be made. 
  

• Bring your doctor's prescription to the appointment. 
  

• You may be asked to stop certain medications a day before the test. Please confirm this with your doctor.
  

• Do not eat or drink anything for at least 4 hours before the test, on the day of the test,.
  

• Do not apply skin lotions on the day of the test.  
  

• Wear loose clothing and comfortable flat shoes to walk in. Do not wear open toe sandals, flip-flops or slippers. 
  

• It may be necessary for men to shave their chest before the test.
  

• If you are suffering from fever or any other illness, please inform the doctor or the technologist.​