Learn more about this valuable testing!
Evaluate Your Exercise Capacity
Graded Exercise Testing is a service provided for Wellness Clinic members only.
What is Graded Exercise Testing?
Graduate and undergraduate students conducting a GXT in the Exercise Physiology lab (2023).
The Graded Exercise Test (GXT) is an evaluation of your exercise capacity, and is provided free to Wellness Clinic members. The GXT is valuable because it provides:
- The BEST measurement of your cardiovascular fitness and functional capacity
- Information used for the development of your exercise program
- Monitoring of your cardiovascular fitness progress
- Information that may assist in screening for cardiovascular disease and mortality risk
GXTs are always done with ECG (heart) monitoring, with optional expired gas collection (via mouthpiece or mask). Gas collection enables VO2 max measurement and determination.
Graded Exercise Testing Waitlist
Contact the Wellness Clinic to be put on the GXT waitlist. We anticipate a spring '26 restart.
GXT Instructions
You will be scheduled to complete a maximum effort exercise test; your performance and test accuracy depends upon adherence to these instructions.
A member undergoing a GXT in the Wellness Clinic (2019).
- Do not perform heavy exercise in the 24 hours preceding your test.
- Do not drink alcohol for 12 hours preceding your test.
- Do not use caffeine (e.g., coffee) or nicotine (e.g., cigarettes) for three hours preceding your test.
- Do not eat for three hours preceding the test.
- Do not eat any food that may cause you discomfort the day of the test.
- Wear comfortable clothing (shorts & T-shirt recommended) and sneakers.
- Chest hair may need to be shaved to ensure sufficient contact with electrodes.