Cardiology• Updated 21 October 2026
Treadmill Test (TMT / Exercise ECG)
An ECG recorded while you walk on a treadmill to see how the heart copes with exercise.
Results: Same day
Quick Summary
Primary Purpose
To look for reduced blood flow to the heart (angina) and check fitness.
What It Measures
ECG changes, blood pressure and symptoms during exercise.
Preparation
Wear comfortable shoes; avoid a heavy meal; ask about stopping some heart medicines.
Overview
The speed and slope increase every few minutes.
Doctors stop the test if you have chest pain or abnormal changes.
What It Measures
ECG changes
Signs of reduced blood flow.
Exercise capacity
How long you can exercise.
How It's Performed
- 01
Setup
Electrodes and blood pressure cuff.
- 02
Exercise
Walk on the treadmill as it gets harder.
- 03
Recovery
Monitored for a few minutes.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Stress Tests(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine