Assessment of exercise capacity

Exercise capacity is the ability to increase oxygen uptake above that at rest. Exercise tolerance relates to an individual’s exercise capacity to endure exercise or to achieve a maximum workload. The assessment of exercise capacity (including initial screening to determine the need for comprehensive assessment) uses self-reported questionnaires and rating scales and standardized maximal exercise tests (e.g. walking, ergometer or treadmill testing) to determine the presence and/or severity of reduced exercise capacity, ascertain their impact on functioning, and inform care planning, including the need for referral or follow-up.