Determine risk-stratification level and exercise heart-rate parameters.

All IHD patients beginning an exercise program should be evaluated for exercise tolerance and functional capacity with an EST. A symptom-limited EST is often performed as soon as the patient's medical condition is stabilized (i.e., as early as 2 to 6 weeks after a coronary event). Consensus is that, if the patient is >1-year status post-acute coronary event, an exercise prescription may be based on stress testing performed within 3 to 6 months.

EST results help determine functional capacity, exercise tolerance, risk stratification, and subsequent exercise prescription.