Methods of exercise testing. Step test, bicycle, treadmill, isometrics

Methods of exercise testing are considered in relation to physiologic types, clinical applications and objectives, physiologic differences in end points and inferences, and comparison of oxygen requirements and circulatory responses. Hazards and safety precautions are cited.The multistage treadmill test of submaximal and maximal exercise is described in terms of oxygen requirements, measurement of maximal oxygen uptake, approach to maximal uptake, determination of functional aerobic impairment and assessment of circulatory and electrocardiographic responses. Initial findings are presented of a new, prospective community study (“Seattle Heart Watch”) designed to test the hypothesis that specific persons at risk for future angina pectoris, myocardial infarction or sudden death can be identified by this method.