What is an Exercise Tolerance Test? (Stress Test)
This is an exercise test designed to assess your heart function under stress/exercise. It is used by Cardiologist as a tool to diagnose with certain types of heart disease. You will wear a full 12-lead ECG while exercising on a treadmill or ergometer bike to your maximum intensity. You will have 12 electrodes placed on your bare chest (women may keep their bra on). Your technician will send the results to your Cardiologist for review.
Preparing for your Exercise Tolerance Test (Stress Test)
-
Ar
rive 25+ minutes early to find parking, check in, and change.
-
Change into workout clothes, including indoor gym shoes.
- Use the washroom before your appointment.
- No caffeine or nicotine for 3 hours before.
- No alcohol for 24 hours before.
- No intense exercise for 24 hours before.
- Eat a light meal beforehand.
- Take your meds as usual (unless your Cardiologist says otherwise).
- Wear a sports bra or non-metal bra.
- Let us know if you have sensitive skin or allergies to adhesives — we have options.
- Shaving is optional — the technician may shave small areas if needed.
What to Avoid Before Your Test
- Arrive late for your appointment (may not be able to see you if there are others scheduled behind you)
- Consume caffeine or nicotine < 3 hours before your appointment
- Consume alcohol <24 hours before your appointment
- Exercise intensely <24 hours before your appointment
- Wear dirty shoes or boots for your exercise test
- Wear a bra containing metal
Contact Us
Phone: +1 (604) 822-9494
Fax: +1 (604) 822-7625
Email: scbc.research@vch.ca
Referrals
Fax: +1 (604) 822-7625
SportsCardiologyBC
Room #S110
UBC Hospital
2211 Wesbrook Mall
Vancouver B.C.
V6T 2B5
VGH / UBC Foundation
SportsCardiologyBC is supported by donations to VGH &
UBC Hospital Foundation. Your donations ensure that
our highly specialized program can continue to invest
in research, cardiovascular screening and public
education to improve the health of British
Columbians and athletes around the world.
