Frequently asked questions

Please be sure to read our frequently asked questions before booking a session with us.

Are there any pre-testing requirements?

There are two aspects which are central to our services:

1. Your health and safety
2. The accuracy and meaning of your test results

In terms of your health and safety, if any of the following applies to you please discuss with the Consultancy Director (Dr Justin Roberts) before making a booking:

• Age: Men over 45 years, women over 55 years*
• Any previous issues with exercise (e.g. pain, dizziness, fainting, current injury)
• Any known heart or lung issues (including asthma)
• Known blood pressure issues (low or high)
• Any metabolic issues, including diabetes
• Currently not active and/or smoke
• A family history of any cardiovascular disorders (including heart disease, stroke or heart attack)
• Currently taking any prescribed medication
• Any other reason, including being told by your GP that you should not take part in vigorous exercise

*Disclaimer: If you are above 45 years (for men) or 55 years (for women) please DO NOT book a test, but instead contact the Consultancy Director (ccses@aru.ac.uk) for more information. It is advised that you contact your GP for a general health check prior to any exercise assessment.

What should you do before a test?

The day before

• Avoid vigorous exercise or training
• Aim to be rested/get a good night's sleep
• Minimise or avoid caffeine and alcohol
• Maintain your typical diet (don't suddenly change your intake)
• Keep a basic record of what you eat and drink to bring to your session

On the day

• Try not to rush but aim to be at the Centre 15 minutes before your test appointment
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol
• Eat a light meal three to four hours before the test (but avoid high carbohydrate intake)
• Bring your record of what you eat and drink with you
• If you use an inhaler please bring it with you
• DO NOT consume sports drinks; just maintain normal hydration up to the test
• DO NOT train on the day, come rested

What do I need to bring?

All you need to bring with you is suitable training or exercise clothing (ie running top, shorts, socks, running shoes).

If you are doing a cycle test we recommend you bring cycle shorts for comfort. If bringing your own bike we recommend you put a training (turbo) tyre on the rear wheel and use your typical training gear, including cycle shoes.

There are changing and shower facilities onsite so we also recommend bringing a towel.

It is recommended that you also bring a bottle of water and a snack for after testing at your discretion.

Where do tests take place?

All testing takes place at our Compass House location on the corner of East Road (80 Newmarket Road, CB5 8DZ).

Driving

If you are driving, there is public parking at the Grafton Centre next door.

Train

If you are coming by train, please be aware that we are ten to 15 minutes' walking distance from the station.

How do I book a test?

You can book onto any of our packages through our Book a test page.

Our clients benefit from seeing progressive results over their training season, so we have created a package with this in mind at a discounted rate. We have designed our services to be as cost-effective as possible, to benefit the end-user and provide real-world experiences for our students.

The testing services are undertaken by a trained consultancy team under supervision. You can read more about our packages, including costings, on our performance and exercise testing page.