High levels of intense exercise have been shown to pose a risk to the heart. The impact of high levels of intense exercise was shown to be cardiotoxic and promote structural changes to the heart, increasing the risk of arrhythmias.
By now we know the importance of exercise, especially when it comes to the heart. But even something that is intended to be beneficial can pose a risk as well. Previous research on long-term sport practices revealed they are linked with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation, which contributes to chronic altered atrial substrate.
Advertisement
Sports cardiologist and research lead André La Gerche said, “Much of the discussion regarding the relative risks and benefits of long-term endurance sports training is hijacked by definitive media-grabbing statements, which has fueled an environment in which one may be criticized for even questioning the benefits of exercise. This paper discusses the often questionable, incomplete, and controversial science behind the emerging concern that high levels of intense exercise may be associated with some adverse health effects.”
Dr. La Gerche also reviewed the following emerging controversies:
Is there a non-linear dose-response relationship with exercise?
Elite athletes tend to live longer, but is this the effect of exercise or other factors, such as the absence of smoking and alcohol consumption?
Is endurance exercise in athletes associated with arrhythmias?
What are the potential mechanisms that predispose athletes to arrhythmias?
Is chronic cardiac remodeling a consequence of repeated bouts of injury?
Advertisement
Why is there disproportionate right ventricular injury following an acute bout of intense exercise, and are there any long-term consequences?
Is the risk of ischemic heart disease increased with intense exercise?
Dr. La Gerche concluded, “The answers regarding the healthfulness of ‘extreme’ exercise are not complete, and there are valid questions being raised. Given that this is a concern that affects such a large proportion of society, it is something that deserves investment. The lack of large prospective studies of persons engaged in high-volume and high-intensity exercise represents the biggest deficiency in the literature to date, and, although such work presents a logistical and financial challenge, many questions will remain controversies until such data emerge.”
Mohan Garikiparithi got his degree in medicine from Osmania University (University of Health Sciences). He practiced clinical medicine for over a decade before he shifted his focus to the field of health communications. During his active practice he served as the head of the Dept. of Microbiology in a diagnostic centre in India. On a three-year communications program in Germany, Mohan developed a keen interest in German Medicine (Homoeopathy), and other alternative systems of medicine. He now advocates treating different medical conditions without the use of traditional drugs. An ardent squash player, Mohan believes in the importance of fitness and wellness.
