Resting Pulse Rate and Electrocardiogram (ECG)
This is a test to show all the electrical activity in the heart. It involves sticking electrodes around the chest area and one on each leg and arm. Wires are then clipped to these electrodes to give a graph of heart electrical activity. The ECG is completely non-invasive as nothing at all passes into the individual being tested, the test takes about 10 minutes.
Most ECGs show completely normal heart activity which can be reassuring to clients especially those with a family history of heart disease or prior to commencing any exercise regime. ECG can also show very early signs of heart problems before symptoms are present. In 40% of heart attacks, changes can be seen on the ECG up to a year before the heart attack so action can then be taken to avoid the heart attack.
Unfortunately, in the UK the NHS only performs regular ECGs after someone has had a heart attack.