Treadmill tests, also known as stress tests, monitor your heart's ability to pump blood through your body effectively. To pass a stress test with flying colors, you have to have a certain amount of aerobic conditioning, and you also have to pay attention to your doctor's instructions during the test. Make sure to ask your doctor any important questions you may have about the test prior to taking it so that you understand what the test entails.
Step 1
Stop taking any medications as directed by your physician. Certain medications interfere with test results, and may mean the difference between failing and passing a stress test. Medications may still be administered for special medical illness such as diabetes and cancer.
Step 2
Wear comfortable clothing. Restrictive clothing can cause decreased oxygen intake, causing your heart to beat faster and your breathing to become shallower. Your blood pressure also rises, registering unfavorable results on the EKG and sphygmomanometer used to measure your heart rate and blood pressure at rest and during activity.
Step 3
Exercise regularly to build stamina and strengthen your heart. Stress tests are very demanding on your heart, and are administered until you reach your target heart rate. Without proper conditioning, you may experience chest pain, irregular heartbeat or breathlessness when the heart is unable to reach a healthy target rate. Exercise helps build your heart to endure the strain of a stress test.
Step 4
Know your limits. Inform the nurse or physician of any discomfort or inability to complete the test. This does not constitute failure; however, it gives the doctor a better understanding of how your heart pumps blood and how your body responds to physical exercise.
