Exercise Stress ECG
An exercise stress ECG (electrocardiogram) is a diagnostic test that records the electrical activities of your heart while you are exercising. It is often called an exercise stress test.
What is an exercise stress ECG?
An exercise stress ECG determines how well your heart and blood vessels work during physical activity, such as walking on a treadmill.
As your heart works harder during exercise, this non-invasive test can help detect problems that may not be apparent while you are resting. It records how fast your heart is beating, as well as its rhythm and timing.
An exercise stress ECG is different from an exercise stress echocardiogram, which is an ultrasound of the heart while exercising. An exercise stress echocardiogram can show your cardiologist if a specific artery in the heart is problematic, while an exercise stress ECG diagnoses a more general abnormality.
What to expect during an exercise stress ECG
How do I make an appointment with Advara HeartCare
If you have a referral from your GP, you can book a Stress ECG appointment with Advara HeartCare.
Advara HeartCare is Australia’s largest cardiology provider, with centres in or around most major metropolitan areas and select regional locations. Click below to find Stress ECG services near Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth or Adelaide.
A stress ECG shows how your heart responds to exercise.
What to Expect
Exercise Stress ECG
How to prepare for a Stress ECG
Eat & Drink
You may be asked to avoid eating a heavy meal, caffeine, or smoking for a few hours before your test. Follow any specific instructions provided by your doctor or the clinic.
What to Wear
Wear comfortable clothing and supportive walking or running shoes, as you’ll be exercising on a treadmill during the test.
What to Bring
Bring your referral letter, Medicare card, a list of your current medications, and any previous cardiac test results if requested.
Appointment Duration
A Stress ECG appointment usually takes 30–45 minutes, including preparation, the exercise test, and recovery. You can usually return to your normal activities afterwards unless advised otherwise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Visit our FAQ section for answers to more common questions about Advara HeartCare, the heart tests we provide and how to access our services.
How do I prepare for my test?
What should I do on the day of the test?
- Bring a list of your current medications.
- Wear a two-piece outfit and comfortable footwear that’s suitable for exercising.
- Do not wear talc, body lotion or neck chains.
- Have only a light meal beforehand.
- Do not consume caffeine, alcohol or nicotine for 2 hours before the test.
What happens immediately before the test?
- You will need to undress to the waist. Females will be provided with a gown for privacy.
- Men may require a part of their chest to be shaved.
- Electrodes will be placed on your chest.
- Sometimes a gown is worn over the electrodes.
What happens during the test?
- You will be supervised by an experienced doctor and cardiac technician.
- Your blood pressure, pulse rate and electrocardiogram will be monitored.
- The test will be stopped when the doctor feels it is appropriate.
What happens after the test?
- You will be monitored for 5 minutes after completing the exercise.
- You’ll be provided with water and a towel.
- You will be asked to remain seated in reception for a further 10 minutes to ensure you are fully recovered before leaving the medical centre.
- Normal activities can be resumed.
- One of our cardiologists will review the results and provide a full report back to your referring doctor.
- One of our cardiologists will review the results and provide a full report back to your referring doctor, who will contact you for the next steps.
What do the results of an exercise stress ECG mean?
Is an exercise stress ECG safe?
Cardiac
Services Available
A full spectrum of heart diagnostics, testing, and specialist care, all under one roof.
ECG Test
Holter Monitor
A Holter monitor is a portable electrocardiogram (ECG) device that your doctor may ask you to wear to record your heart’s activity over 24-48 hours.
