More and more evidence is being uncovered daily about how a person’s fitness level is an accurate predictor of cardiovascular mortality. The highly-trained exercise physiologists at CHA work directly on assessing a patient’s level of fitness and then create a plan to address the patient’s needs and goals in the context of their lives.

One of the first items on the agenda for the exercise physiologist is to perform a body composition test in the Bod Pod. This machine uses the latest in air-displacement technology to measure ratio of fat and lean muscle mass in your body, which is useful in determining metabolic needs and cardiovascular risks. The results can also be a helpful predictor of the risk of diabetes.

Another key element of the EP’s evaluation is the treadmill stress test. This combines an EKG component to look for evidence of significantly blocked coronary arteries with the direct Vo2 max, or aerobic capacity, measurement. Regular exercise is the only way to maintain fitness and the stress test with Vo2 max is the only way to fully assess a patient’s fitness level.

The exercise physiologist will also take you to the award-winning Celebration Fitness Centre for some rudimentary strength testing that will also be factored into your assessment.