What to Expect From Your Appointment at Sports Cardiology UK

If you have pre-existing symptoms, a family history of heart concerns, or just want to be sure you’re not at risk, we’re here to provide a complete heart health service tailored to you. Our tests will check your heart health and screen for any underlying conditions. 

Whether you're a seasoned athlete, someone returning to exercise, or simply proactive about staying in good health, we break down what happens during your appointment and what tests might be involved.

Why have your heart screened?

While regular exercise is one of the best things you can do for your heart, some underlying heart conditions may only show up during physical activity, which you may have no prior knowledge of. This can be influenced by characteristics such as age, gender, ethnicity and the type as well as duration of sports.

That’s where Sports Cardiology UK comes in. We offer expert consultant-led cardiac screening and assessments tailored for people of all ages and abilities who are involved in (or returning to) exercise.

Who are Cardiac Assessments for?

Screening is relevant for a range of individuals, including:

• Young athletes (12+), especially those in competitive sport

• "Would-be" athletes — adults starting or returning to training

• Veteran/Masters athletes (men 40+ / women 50+)

• Elite & professional athletes

• People with symptoms (breathlessness, chest pain, palpitations, dizziness)

• People with existing heart conditions

What happens during your appointment?

Pre-Participation Questionnaire: Before your appointment, we ask you to complete a health and family history questionnaire to help us get a picture of your health history and flag any relevant risk factors. 

Appointment: During the appointment, all clients undergo a clinical cardiovascular examination by an experienced cardiologist. This involves checking the blood pressure, listening to the heart with a stethoscope and examining the pulse and heart size.

Electrocardiogram (ECG): This is a simple, non-invasive test that records the electrical activity of your heart. It helps spot rhythm abnormalities and signs of conditions like cardiomyopathy.

Echocardiogram (Heart Ultrasound): ​We also recommend an Echocardiogram is carried out, to give us a precise measurement of the structure, size and functioning of the heart, heart valves and adjacent blood vessels. An echocardiogram is recommended for everybody, but is an integral part of the Football Association examination for professional footballers and increasingly so by other sports.

Tailored tests: 

There may be different processes we follow depending on your age group and situation:

You're a young athlete (12–30):

You’ll likely receive a basic screening with an ECG and clinical assessment. An echocardiogram may be added depending on your history or sport.

You're 40+ and returning to exercise:

You may be offered risk factor testing (cholesterol, blood pressure), an ECG, echocardiogram, and an exercise stress test. This involves running on a treadmill while attached to an ECG machine. This test is designed to help assess the underlying risk of coronary artery disease.

You’ve experienced symptoms:

Expect a comprehensive assessment, including a detailed consultation and appropriate tests (ECG, echo, monitoring, or MRI).

Additional tests (if needed):

Depending on your age, risk factors or symptoms, your cardiologist may also recommend:

• Exercise Stress Test: treadmill test while connected to an ECG

• Heart Monitoring: portable monitor worn over 1–14 days

• Stress Echocardiogram: uses exercise or medication to test heart under load

• Cardiac MRI / CT: advanced imaging when further investigation is needed

Where are appointments held?

Appointments can take place:

• In person at clinics in Bath or Bristol

• At your sports club via their mobile service

• Can’t attend in person? Online e-consultations are available to discuss your symptoms, risks or to review prior results.

Contact our friendly team to book an appointment

How much does it cost?

Costs depend on the package you choose:

• Basic screening (ECG + exam): approx. £155

• Professional screening (includes echo): approx. £400

• Advanced testing (stress test, MRI): priced individually – contact the clinic

Booking a screening or assessment at Sports Cardiology UK is a proactive way to stay safe, healthy, and confident in your training. Whether you're starting a new fitness journey or competing at the highest level. With consultant-led assessments and cutting-edge diagnostics, you’ll receive personalised care that helps you train smarter and safer.

👉 Get in touch to book 

Contact Sports Cardiology UK to discuss your needs or book an appointment.