TMT Test for Heart: Normal Range, Procedure, Purpose, More
Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Ragiinii Sharma
Written By Srujana Mohanty
on Mar 14, 2022
Last Edit Made By Srujana Mohanty
on Nov 28, 2024
The treadmill ECG stress test (TMT) is part of health check packages recommended for asymptomatic people to detect diseases at an early age that can prevent or reduce future morbidity and mortality. The TMT test has an average sensitivity of 68% and a specificity of 77%. In this article, learn about the TMT test for the heart, why it is done, and the normal range of TMT for people.
Heart-related complications are often life threatening, if not fatal. Rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, discomfort and pain in the chest – all of these are common signs of cardiovascular complications that you are likely taking for granted. Routine and complete screening allows you to live a carefree life without the burden of worries in your head. Get routine tests to stay updated about your heart function.
In this Article
What is the need for the TMT Test for Heart?
The TMT test helps diagnose heart conditions and see how well your heart handles the workload. Your doctor might suggest you a TMT test if you are undergoing heart surgery, heart treatment, or starting some vigorous exercise program. Other reasons for which a doctor might recommend a TMT test are-
- Diagnosis of the damage or disease in the coronary arteries due to the accumulation of cholesterol or other substances (plaques).
- Diagnosis of cardiac arrhythmia that can occur due to improper coordination of the electrical impulses.
- Plan the treatment of heart disorders
- Diagnose cardiovascular health
You might also be recommended a TMT test if you have one or more of the following symptoms that indicate a heart disease:
- Fast heartbeat
- Irregular heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
- Breathing difficulty
What is the normal range of TMT?
During a TMT test, you will be asked to exercise at approximately 85% of your maximum heart rate. The maximum heart rate is calculated by subtracting your age from 220. The TMT test can be either negative or positive. A negative TMT test indicates that the patient could reach a certain heart rate without showing any changes in the ECG result. Whereas a positive TMT result indicates that there were changes in the ECG report were obtained post-workload.
Doctors also evaluate how well your heart rate recovers post-exercise. The recovery is calculated by subtracting the heart rate one minute after exercise from the peak heart rate. The inferences drawn are tabulated below:
| S.No. | Peak heart rate minus the heart rate 1 minute after intense exercise | Inference |
| 1. | < 12 bpm in a walking recovery | Abnormal |
| 2. | > 12 bpm in a walking recovery | Normal |
| 3. | < 18 bpm while lying on the back | abnormal |
| 4. | > 18 bpm while lying on the back | Normal |
During a TMT test, your blood pressure is also monitored. The changes in the diastolic and systolic blood pressure can be an indication of certain health conditions. The major inferences that can be drawn from blood pressure readings are
| S.No. | Blood pressure readings | Inference |
| 1. | Less than 10 mm Hg increase in the blood pressure | This might be due to the blood pressure reduction medications |
| 2. | Less than 10 mm Hg change in the diastolic blood pressure | Peripheral vasodilation |
| 3. | Drop in the systolic blood pressure of more than 10 mm Hg | Severe left ventricle dysfunction or coronary artery disease |
| 4. | Systolic blood pressure greater than 250 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure greater than 120 mm Hg | Severe hypertension |
Your tolerance to exercise can also be calculated through the TMT test. These values are calculated in terms of metabolic equivalents or METS. METS refers to the uptake of oxygen expressed in kg/minute. The inferences that can be drawn from the TMT test are listed below:
| S.No. | METS Reading | Inference |
| 1. | < 5 METS | Poor |
| 2. | 5 - 8 METS | Fair |
| 3. | 9 - 11 METS | Good |
| 4. | > 12 METS | Any METS score above 10 indicates a 5-year survival rate of around 95%. |
What are the risks associated with the TMT test for the heart?
The treadmill test, or TMT test, is safe and risk-free. It is considered harmless when you perform it in a controlled atmosphere under the guidance of an experienced physician.
Still, there are some dangers associated with the TMT test:
- Chest Pain
- Fainting or collapsing
- Heart Attack
- Irregular heart rhythms
- A heart attack
There is a slight possibility that you will experience falls or injuries during the treadmill exercise at the time of the TMT test, mainly for those individuals who try hard to maintain balance on the treadmill or have mobility problems.
Also read: https://redcliffelabs.com/myhealth/food-and-nutrition/10-foods-that-improve-your-cardiac-health/
What is the procedure for the TMT test?
Give essential guidelines to the patient before the TMT test. The TMT test procedure should be performed under controlled conditions. Below are the step-by-step instructions for the TMT test procedure:
- Preparation: The patient should be given instructions, and may be asked to avoid eating or drinking coffee a few hours before the test.
- Electrode Placement: The expert places the electrodes on the patient’s chest. This is done to monitor their heart’s electrical activity via ECG.
- Baseline Measurements: Before the treadmill starts to perform the TMT test, the patient’s resting heart rate, ECG readings, and blood pressure are recorded.
- Treadmill Exercise: The patient begins to walk slowly on the treadmill. He will gradually speed up his speed, and incline at specified intervals.
- Monitoring: The three parameters, which are the patient’s ECG, blood pressure, and heart rate, are continuously monitored.
- Evaluation of symptoms: closely assessing the patient’s chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue.
- Stopping the TMT test: This is the termination of the TMT test. It is performed when the patient achieves the target heart rate. Also, he experiences symptoms, or if there is any damage or change to the heart muscle.
- Evaluation after the TMT test: Once the TMT test is done, it is time to monitor the patient’s recovery, and abnormal findings are discussed with the doctor for further evaluation and management.
Also read: -
https://redcliffelabs.com/myhealth/blood-test/5-tests-for-diagnosing-heart-diseases-heart-health/
What is the patient advised to do after a TMT test?
A patient is advised to rest briefly after the treadmill test (TMT). This helps their heart rate and blood pressure to return to normal. If you feel any discomfort or inconvenience during the TMT test then you should immediately report to your healthcare provider. The doctor will review the TMT test results, and treatment or suggestions will be discussed.
What do the results of the TMT test mean?
The TMT test looks for the patient’s abnormalities in heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG readings during exercise.
- If the TMT test result is positive, it indicates irregularities in the heart due to exercise stress. Besides, it is also suggestive of coronary artery disease or other cardiac issues.
- On the other hand, if the TMT result is negative, it indicates the patient’s normal heart function under stress. Besides, a negative TMT result also suggests a lower likelihood of cardiac issues or underlying coronary artery ischemia.
However, doctors will consider other factors, such as the patient's history and other symptoms, to interpret the test results.
A list of precautions that a patient should take before undergoing TMT:
A patient should keep a few guidelines in mind before going for the test to ensure the accuracy of the results:
- Fasting: It is advisable not to eat or drink anything, especially caffeinated drinks, for a few hours before the treadmill test. This will help get the desired results.
- Brisk Walking: He or she may be advised to walk briskly for a few days before the test.
- Medications:: Tell your doctor about any drugs or medications you take. Their interaction can cause side effects.. He may suggest stopping or continuing to take them, even for the test. Some medicines may cause side effects.
- Wear comfortable clothes: Choose comfortable attire, even footwear, to avoid discomfort during the TMT test.
- Rest: Do not indulge in rigorous activities on the TMT test day to avoid hormone fluctuations.
Note: An asthma patient should use an inhaler before the test.
Takeaway
The TMT or treadmill stress test is a safe, non-invasive and affordable screening test for the diagnosis of coronary artery diseases (CAD). It is an essential diagnostic test for people at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Now that you know what a TMT test is, who are the best candidate for the test and what the values of the test report mean, you will be able to analyze your health status better.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Who should not go for a TMT test?
The TMT test is not suggested for people who have any heart or cardiovascular conditions, arthritis, or had a stroke or heart attack in the recent past.
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What are the risks of getting a TMT test done?
Generally, a TMT test is safe. However, some of the rare risks of the TMT test include collapse, chest pain, heart attack, getting fainted, or irregular heartbeat.
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What is the normal TMT report?
The normal maximum TMT heart rate for adults is 220 minus your age. 85% of this predicted maximum heart rate is considered normal.
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How much time does a TMT test take to complete?
A. A standard time for a TMT test to be completed is about 10–15 minutes.
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What happens when a patient fails a stress test?
A. If a patient fails a stress test, they need not worry. It could be related to other conditions and has nothing to do with the heart. The healthcare provider may suggest another stress test to assess the patient’s condition.
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Who should avoid the TMT test?
A. A TMT test is a big no for certain people, such as:
- Those who have had a heart attack within the 48 hours preceding the test.
- Individuals with uncontrolled blood pressure or heart disorders.
- Those who are not in good health due to other health conditions.
Leave a comment
18 Comments
Yash Kumar
Dec 20, 2024 at 9:59 AM.
In my TMT test my Max METs was 12.5 but achieved maximum heart rate of 95% of maximum heart rate achieved (I am 19 years old and achieved 190 as maximum heart rate). Doctor said need not to worry . But now I am constantly feeling dizzy from some days. Should I need to worry ??
Myhealth Team
Dec 20, 2024 at 10:11 AM.
If your doctor has cleared your TMT results, it’s a good sign, but persistent dizziness shouldn’t be ignored. Common causes include dehydration, low blood pressure, inner ear issues, low blood sugar, or anemia. Monitor your symptoms, stay hydrated, and eat balanced meals. If dizziness persists, consult your doctor for further evaluation.
Mrunmayee Parab
Dec 9, 2024 at 1:33 PM.
I have recently done TMT test and result shown as inconclusive, poor corporation. Heart rate 86 bpm.. doctor suggested angiography..please suggest
Myhealth Team
Dec 9, 2024 at 1:53 PM.
An inconclusive TMT test and the suggestion for angiography means your doctor wants to check for possible heart blockages. Angiography is a reliable test for this. It's a good idea to follow your doctor's advice, but you can also seek a second opinion if you're unsure.
Aditi
Nov 29, 2024 at 7:27 AM.
My TMT test was negative. Operator at Diagnostic centre, did not capture and enter BP during RECOVERY STAGE. Hence in reports, BP mentioned at Stage 3 ( 150/80) and it shown same in all stages of recovery. Based on constant BP 150/80, stage 3 on words, my insurance company, declined my insurance proposal, stating that " abnormal observations during TMT. What is solution for this type of error by Diagnostic Lab
Myhealth Team
Nov 30, 2024 at 1:01 PM.
You should contact the diagnostic centre and explain the BP recording error during the recovery phase. Request a corrected report or a re-test with accurate BP measurements. If a re-test isn’t possible, ask for a letter from the centre clarifying the error. You can also have your doctor review the report and provide support for the correction when dealing with the insurance company.
Swapan Chandra sarkar
Oct 27, 2024 at 8:45 AM.
22/10/24 tmt করিয়েছি।আমার result total time 9.08. max HR 167bpm 95%of max predicted 175 bpm. Max BP 170/70. Maximum workload 10.3 Mets.(st -3) আর (st -4 এ 10.1)আমার বুকটা জাম জাম /ভারি ভারি লাগে। আমাকে এখন কি করতে হবে? আমাকে কি এনজিও গ্রাপি করতে হবে কি? please জানাবেন
Myhealth Team
Oct 28, 2024 at 8:45 AM.
TMT ফলাফল অনুযায়ী, আপনার বুকের ভারি ভাব এবং Max HR 167 bpm সহ BP 170/70 চিন্তার বিষয়। দ্রুত একজন cardiologist এর সঙ্গে যোগাযোগ করুন, যিনি আপনার ফলাফল এবং লক্ষণগুলি বিশ্লেষণ করবেন। তারা এনজিওগ্রাফি করার পরামর্শ দিতে পারেন। এছাড়াও, সুষম খাদ্য গ্রহণ এবং নিয়মিত ব্যায়াম করার চেষ্টা করুন। চিকিৎসকের নির্দেশনা মেনে চলা গুরুত্বপূর্ণ।
Kittu sharma
Aug 24, 2024 at 2:42 PM.
My father got the tmt test and METS is 14 and 89% of target heart rate at 165bpm.
MyHealth Team
Aug 24, 2024 at 6:29 PM.
A TMT (Treadmill Test) result with 14 METs and 89% of the target heart rate at 165 bpm suggests good cardiovascular fitness. It indicates that your father can achieve a high level of exercise intensity and maintain a near-target heart rate, which is generally a positive sign of heart health. However, the overall assessment should be interpreted by his healthcare provider in the context of his overall health and any symptoms he might have.
Salaria
Aug 19, 2024 at 2:05 AM.
METS 10.20 Resting heart rate 62 bpm rose to 150 bpm Resting blood pressure 120/80 mm/Hg Age 59 male TMT DONE ON 16.08.2024
MyHealth Team
Aug 22, 2024 at 7:00 AM.
For a 59-year-old male with a resting heart rate of 62 bpm that rose to 150 bpm during a TMT on 16.08.2024, and a resting blood pressure of 120/80 mmHg, consult a cardiologist to evaluate the results. Monitor any symptoms like chest pain or dizziness and follow your doctor’s advice for treatment and lifestyle changes. Regular follow-up is essential for heart health.
Preeti
Aug 4, 2024 at 5:14 PM.
My father age is 52 targer heart rate achieve 101% tmt is negative written by doctor?
MyHealth Team
Aug 5, 2024 at 9:19 AM.
A target heart rate achievement of 101% in a TMT (Treadmill Test) with a negative result means your father successfully reached the desired heart rate during the test without showing signs of heart disease. This is generally a good result. However, it's important to discuss the full report with your doctor for a comprehensive understanding.
Jitendra Singh Tomar
Jul 13, 2024 at 11:18 AM.
hi, Mt wife found TMT positive for inducible ischemia heart rate achieved at peak exercise was 168(90%)/minute PPR of 20500 was attained in 9 min 17 sec by doing 10.5 mets of physical exercise. during this activities she has running periods of 3rd day. kindly suggest what to do
MyHealth Team
Aug 5, 2024 at 10:01 AM.
Given the TMT results showing inducible ischemia and a high heart rate, consult a cardiologist for further evaluation and management. Additional tests may be needed to assess heart function. Address any menstrual issues with a gynecologist and follow lifestyle and exercise recommendations from your cardiologist.
Umesh Singh
Jul 11, 2024 at 3:21 AM.
After TMT test my result found negative But what is showing in my result.ad follows Max HR - 185 bpm ( 120.92 % of 153 bpm ) Distance covered - 0.29 km
MyHealth Team
Jul 11, 2024 at 4:37 PM.
- Max HR (Maximum Heart Rate): 185 bpm, which is 120.92% of the predicted maximum heart rate of 153 bpm.
- Distance Covered: 0.29 km.
A negative TMT result typically means that there were no abnormal changes in your heart's electrical activity during the test. However, the interpretation of your specific results should be discussed with your doctor, who can provide you with detailed insights and recommendations based on your overall health and the context of the test results.
subhakar
May 6, 2024 at 9:46 AM.
I am Subhakar 47 Years old Runner and Cyclist recently got imy TMT test done my METS was 9.10 feeling happy and relived .
Myhealth Team
May 6, 2024 at 1:00 PM.
Congratulations, Subhakar! Achieving a METS score of 9.10 on your recent TMT test is a fantastic accomplishment, especially for someone who is an active runner and cyclist like yourself. This indicates excellent cardiovascular fitness and endurance. Feeling happy and relieved is completely understandable, as your results reflect your dedication to your fitness regimen and overall health. Keep up the great work!
Lingeswaran
May 4, 2024 at 3:01 PM.
Tmt test normal and ECG test normal and endoscopy test normal still left side chest and ,left hand ,left side neck tholpattai over pain
Myhealth Team
May 5, 2024 at 5:19 PM.
Hi Please consult with your doctor regarding this. They can advise you better.
Jyoti khurana
Apr 14, 2024 at 5:17 PM.
I m 47 years old. I am asthmatic. During tmt test I exercised BRUCE for 7.25 minutes achieving work level 10.10 Mets. Maximum heart rate 164 BPM, maximum blood pressure 140/80. The doctor said that the test is borderline positive for inducible ischemia. Do I need any medication
MyHealth Team
Apr 15, 2024 at 1:02 PM.
Hi Jyoti, Given your borderline positive TMT result and medical history, follow up with your doctor for further evaluation and potential medication.
GOVARADHAN GOPAL
Apr 1, 2024 at 8:42 AM.
Cardiac stress analysis is POSITIVE for inducible myocardial ischaemia at good work load and 98% of maximum heart. What it means?
Myhealth Team
Apr 1, 2024 at 10:01 AM.
Hi Gopal,
A positive result for inducible myocardial ischemia on a cardiac stress analysis suggests that there is evidence of inadequate blood flow to the heart during physical exertion. This can indicate potential blockages or narrowing in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle.
The fact that it occurred at a good workload and 98% of maximum heart rate indicates that the heart is not receiving sufficient blood flow even during periods of increased demand, such as during exercise when the heart needs more oxygen-rich blood.
This finding warrants further evaluation by a cardiologist to determine the severity of the condition and to develop an appropriate treatment plan, which may include lifestyle changes, medication, or procedures to improve blood flow to the heart. It's important to follow up with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and management.
Thankyou
Ravi shankar
Jan 27, 2024 at 6:06 AM.
Sir i have pain in my left chest area. My ecg report says a HR of 102 bpm. My echo lvef is 60 -3%... Echo says i have a mild TR.. Doctor suggested do do a TMT test.. My pain is not relieving... What should i do
Myhealth Team
Apr 1, 2024 at 10:02 AM.
Hi ravi, If you're experiencing persistent chest pain, follow your doctor's advice for the TMT test. Since the pain is not relieving and you're concerned, seek immediate medical attention. Always prioritize your health and follow your doctor's guidance closely. Thankyou
Myhealth Team
Jan 30, 2024 at 12:40 PM.
With persistent chest pain and abnormal ECG findings, it's crucial to follow your doctor's advice and undergo the TMT test for further evaluation of heart function and potential coronary artery disease. If pain persists or worsens, seek immediate medical attention.
Sunil Kumar
Oct 10, 2023 at 5:25 PM.
My Echo result is LVEF 60% My TMT readings is followings Stage Grade METS HR 1. 10% 4.6. 116 2. 12% 7.0. 127 3. 14% 10.2. 142 4. 16% 13.5. 155 5. 18% 17.2. 161 Max HR 163 Max METS 17.2 Max VO2 60.2 Total time 12.33 min My age 37 yr Please confirm. Is this good for me or not.
Myhealth Team
Apr 1, 2024 at 10:03 AM.
Hi Sunil, Based on your age and the TMT results, achieving a maximum METs value of 17.2 and a maximum heart rate of 163 is considered excellent. Your exercise capacity and cardiovascular fitness level appear good. Thankyou
Myhealth Team
Oct 13, 2023 at 11:18 AM.
Your LVEF is good at 60%, and the TMT results suggest good exercise capacity. Consult your doctor for a comprehensive evaluation.
ibrahim
Oct 2, 2023 at 5:07 AM.
My TMT results: Total time 9.04 minutes (Peak EX Stage 4 for 5 seconds). Peak heart rate 144 (BRUCE Stage 3) THR 84% peak MET 10.3 (Peak EX) Peak BP was 160/90 (during the recovery at 11th minute)
Myhealth Team
Oct 7, 2023 at 9:20 AM.
Your TMT results indicate good exercise capacity, reaching a peak MET of 10.3. However, the peak blood pressure reading of 160/90 mm Hg during recovery may warrant discussion with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.
Rajendra Ithape
Jan 29, 2023 at 2:39 PM.
My age 51 yrs. My max heart rate is 167 at tmt. Is it normal?
Myhealth Team
Feb 2, 2023 at 11:09 AM.
Hello Sir, Your heart rate is too high. You shall see a cardiologist.
Muhammed hakkim Khan
Nov 19, 2022 at 4:30 PM.
Sir. I have my left side chest pain continusily for last 2 years and I have done all my test ( ecg, echo, tmt) all test are normal but I have the pain constantly the pain is only left side, I have cervical spondylitis I met many doctors When I visit doctors fir chest pain they will take ecg then given some medicine for pain killer and tell to go for physiotherapy that also done but still I have pain I can't consantrte my day to day activities because of this sir Pls suggest My echo and tmt done last week still I have heart problam??
Myhealth Team
Nov 21, 2022 at 12:53 PM.
Thanks for the enquiry. Having a pain, heaviness or discomfort in your chest can be scary. It does not always mean that you are having a heart attack. There can be many other causes, including angina, Panic attacks, Digestive problems, such as heartburn or esophagus disorders Sore muscles,Lung diseases,such as pneumonia, pleurisy, or pulmonary embolism Costochondritis. Some of these problems can be serious. Get immediate medical care if you have chest pain that does not go away, crushing pain or pressure in the chest, or chest pain along with nausea, sweating, dizziness or shortness of breath. Treatment depends on the cause of the pain.
