Before Sports Cardiology Performance Testing

Before any testing, you’ll meet with our sports cardiologist and exercise physiologist. They will go over your medical history in detail and address any cardiology concerns you have. You may bring in any previous or outside testing for your doctors to review. 

You may be asked to refrain from vigorous exercise for 12 to 24 hours before coming in for testing. Follow instructions on whether you also need to fast or avoid caffeine or alcohol prior to your tests. 

During Sports Cardiology Performance Testing

You will have three different tests during your appointment. To assess your body composition, your doctor will use special calipers that pinch and measure body fat. Typically, body fat is measured at several sites—such as the back of the arm, thigh, and belly.

Next is a test to measure your resting metabolic rate. You’ll relax, sitting or lying down, while breathing into a mask. You’ll be connected to a machine that uses information from your breathing to calculate the number of calories you burn at rest.

For the VO2 max test, you’ll use a treadmill, stationary bike, or rowing ergometer, depending on your primary sport. The doctor will attach EKG leads to your chest and torso. You’ll wear a mask that monitors your oxygen intake. The exercise protocol is tailored to your exercise history and athletic goals.

The exercise portion of the VO2 max test lasts about 12 minutes. During this time, you will gradually increase the intensity of your exercise. The goal is to continue making the exercise harder until you reach exhaustion.

After Sports Cardiology Performance Testing

When you have finished your VO2 max test, you’ll regroup with the sports cardiologist and exercise physiologist. They will go over your test results in detail, explaining what each measure means and how you might use it to plan your training.

Based on your personal VO2 max and max heart rate data, your doctors will provide customized recommendations. For example, they will tell you how to use heart rate training zones during your workouts to increase endurance and efficiency.