Exercise Tests

Safe and Accurate Heart Stress Testing at London Heart Group

A cardiac exercise test — also known as a stress test or exercise ECG — is a widely used, non-invasive test that helps doctors understand how your heart performs under physical stress. It’s a key investigation for detecting coronary artery disease, assessing exercise tolerance, and guiding treatment decisions for various heart conditions.

At London Heart Group, we offer expert-led cardiac stress testing in London, using advanced equipment and protocols tailored to your individual needs.

What Is a Cardiac Exercise Test?

A cardiac exercise test monitors your heart’s electrical activity (ECG), heart rate, and blood pressure while you walk on a treadmill or pedal a stationary bike. It’s designed to show how your heart responds to increasing physical demand — revealing issues that may not be detectable when your body is at rest.

We may also combine this with imaging to perform a stress echocardiogram or stress perfusion scan for more detailed information.

Who Might Need a Cardiac Exercise Test?

You may be referred for a cardiac exercise test if you:

  • Experience chest pain, discomfort, or tightness during physical activity

  • Have shortness of breath, fatigue, or dizziness when exercising

  • Have risk factors for coronary artery disease (such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol)

  • Need to evaluate the effectiveness of heart medications or treatments

  • Are recovering from a heart attack or cardiac surgery

  • Require fitness clearance before returning to work, sports, or surgery

  • Have an abnormal resting ECG that needs further investigation

It is also used in patients with known valvular disease or heart failure to assess symptom severity and guide timing of interventions.

What Can a Cardiac Stress Test Detect?

A cardiac exercise test can help diagnose:

  • Coronary artery disease (CAD)

  • Exercise-induced arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms)

  • Exercise intolerance or unexplained fatigue

  • Changes in blood pressure response to exertion

  • Risk of future cardiac events

By observing how your heart reacts to stress, we can better predict the presence of blockages, reduced blood flow, or electrical conduction problems.

What to Expect During a Cardiac Exercise Test

  • You’ll be connected to an ECG monitor and blood pressure cuff

  • You’ll walk or cycle in gradually increasing stages

  • The test usually lasts between 10–20 minutes, depending on your fitness and symptoms

  • Your cardiologist will monitor for changes in heart rhythm, rate, and blood pressure

The test is safe, supervised, and performed with emergency equipment available if needed.

Why Choose London Heart Group for Stress Testing?

At London Heart Group, we offer:

  • Consultant-led cardiac exercise tests in London

  • Access to stress ECG, stress echo, and advanced imaging

  • Seamless integration with other tests like cardiac MRI or TOE

  • Personalised advice, follow-up, and treatment plans

  • Fast appointments and detailed result explanations

We focus on patient comfort, safety, and accuracy — providing the insight needed to make informed decisions about your heart health.

Book Your Cardiac Exercise Test in London

Concerned about chest pain, palpitations, or your heart’s performance under stress?
Get a comprehensive cardiac assessment at London Heart Group. Call us on 0208 226 5888 or email enquiries@londonheartgroup.co.uk

Stay active. Stay informed. Stay heart smart with London Heart Group.