Treadmill Stress Test With and Without Mask

Treadmill Stress Test With and Without Mask: Comparison of Exercise Capacity and Perception

The purpose of this study is to assess if wearing a surgical mask affects the results of a standard treadmill test.

The persons interested to participate will be informed of the implication and potential risks associated with the study. The participants that accept and meet the eligibility criteria will give written consent and be randomized into two groups. One group will first perform a treadmill test with a surgical mask and then repeat the test without a mask. The second group will do the first treadmill test without a mask and the second one with a surgical mask.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults (18-65 years old)
• Healthy
• Vaccinated against COVID-19

Exclusion Criteria:

• Any cardiac or respiratory condition
• Walking difficulty
• Waiting for a stress test for a medical reason
• Abnormal resting ECG
• Inability to wear a mask
• Inability to understand or follow the instructions
• Medical contraindication to performing a treadmill stress test