Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test (CPET)

At Welbeck, the CPET is performed on an exercise bike to provide precise measurements of your heart and respiratory function during exertion. 

Before the exercise test begins, you’ll perform a resting spirometry test (breathing test) to assess basic capacity and airflow. 

Electrodes will then be attached to your chest to monitor your heart rate and rhythm, and you’ll have a blood pressure cuff on your arm, as well as a pulse oximetry probe clipped onto one of your fingers.   

You will also need to wear a special mask, which will measure your breathing activity during exercise.  

When ready, you’ll be asked to pedal on the bike at a comfortable pace without any resistance applied. After a short warm-up, pedal resistance is gradually increased throughout the test, making it more difficult as time goes on.

You’ll be asked to pedal until you either can't pedal any further, the physiologist stops the test for clinical reasons or you want to stop. 

For most patients, the exercise part of the test usually lasts between 5 and 12 minutes.

This test is generally very safe. You may feel short of breath, tired or lightheaded during the test, but these symptoms usually settle quickly once you stop exercising. Occasionally, the sticky pads used for monitoring can cause mild skin irritation.

Your consultant will talk you through any preparation required before you take the test. General advice includes:

• clothing: wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes suitable for exercise

• footwear: bring supportive trainers suitable for cycling

• food and drink: avoid heavy meals for at least 2 to 3 hours before the test. You can drink water as normal

• caffeine and alcohol: refrain from caffeinated drinks and alcohol on the day of the test

• medications: continue taking our prescribed medications unless your consultant advises otherwise. If you are unsure, bring your medication list to your appointment

• rest: try to get a good night’s sleep before the test to ensure optimal performance

You can resume eating and drinking as normal after the test. Most people can return to their usual routine, but if you feel tired, it’s best to take it easy and rest.

Please contact our Heart Health centre or Lung Health centre for pricing.

At Welbeck, our cardiologists and respiratory consultants are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

To book a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET), you must be referred by either your GP or a consultant following a consultation with them. Self-referrals are not accepted for this test.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with a Welbeck consultant, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.