Bruce treadmill test

The Bruce treadmill test is a maximal running test performed on a treadmill. It is one of the most commonly used tests in USA.

 

Instructions:
1. You need a treadmill that has reliable incline and speed possibilities.
2. Follow the protocol described below. (printer friendly pdf-sheet click here)
3. Note the time at the point of exhaustion.

Every three minutes speed and grade is changed as follows:

Time (min)	3	6	9	12	15	18	21
Speed (mph)	1.7	2.5	3.4	4.2	5.0	5.5	6.0
Grade (%)	10	12	14	16	18	20	22

Should be read like this: the test begins with speed 1.7 mph and incline at 10%. After 3 minutes speed is increased to 2.5 mph and incline to 12%.

 

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Reference:
ACSM's Guidelines for exercise testing and prescription. Seventh edition. pp 99-100