Cardiac Service

    Exercise Treadmill Testing (ETT)

    An exercise treadmill test (ETT) monitors your heart's electrical activity, blood pressure and symptoms while you walk on a treadmill at increasing speed and incline.

    A supervised treadmill test monitoring your ECG and blood pressure during graded exercise. Useful for assessing chest pain, fitness and occupational requirements including DVLA, ENG1, CAA and offshore stress tests.

    30 minutes
    From £500

    What to Expect

    The exercise treadmill test is a procedure designed to evaluate your heart's response to physical activity. During the test, you will be asked to walk on a treadmill that gradually increases in speed and incline. Your heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG will be monitored throughout the test to assess how well your heart functions under stress.

    This test helps to diagnose various heart conditions, including coronary artery disease, by observing your heart's performance during exertion. We also offer occupational testing, for example DVLA, ENG1, CAA, and offshore stress tests.

    Key Details

    The Procedure

    • Graded treadmill protocol (Bruce or modified)
    • Continuous 12-lead ECG monitoring
    • Blood pressure measured at each stage
    • Total appointment approx. 30 minutes

    Preparation

    • Wear comfortable clothing and trainers
    • Avoid heavy meals for 2 hours before
    • Avoid caffeine on the day of the test
    • Continue medications unless advised otherwise

    Occupational Testing

    • DVLA Group 2 licence medicals
    • ENG1 seafarer fitness certificates
    • CAA aviation medical assessments
    • Offshore fitness-to-work stress tests

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is an exercise treadmill test?

    An exercise treadmill test (ETT) is a supervised test where you walk on a treadmill that gradually increases in speed and incline while your heart rate, blood pressure and ECG are continuously monitored. It evaluates how well your heart performs under physical stress.

    How long does the treadmill test take?

    The full appointment takes approximately 30 minutes, including preparation, the exercise itself and a recovery period. The actual time on the treadmill varies depending on your fitness level and the protocol used.

    Is the exercise treadmill test safe?

    Yes. The test is performed under continuous medical supervision with ECG monitoring. It can be stopped at any time if you feel unwell or if any abnormality is detected.

    Do you offer occupational stress tests?

    Yes. We offer exercise treadmill tests for occupational purposes including DVLA Group 2 medicals, ENG1 seafarer medicals, CAA aviation medicals and offshore fitness assessments.

    How should I prepare for a treadmill test?

    Wear comfortable clothing and trainers suitable for walking or jogging. Avoid heavy meals for two hours before the test. Continue your normal medications unless your cardiologist advises otherwise. Avoid caffeine on the day of the test.

    Reviewed by Dr Matthew Balerdi, Consultant Imaging Cardiologist (FRCP) — Last reviewed: April 2026

    Ready to Book Your Treadmill Test?

    No NHS referral required. Get rapid access to a private exercise treadmill test with specialist reporting, including occupational assessments.