Your heart changes in size and shape with exercise – this can lead to heart problems for some athletes and gym rats

People who regularly engage in significant amounts of exercise, as endurance athletes do, may develop enlarged hearts. While athletic heart is adapted for performance, it can be cause for concern.

By: William Cornwell, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: January 17, 2026

Words: 1,344

Last Updated: 2 months ago

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By William Cornwell, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

Exercise has long been recognized by clinicians, scientists and public health officials as an important way to maintain health throughout a person’s lifespan. It improves overall fitness, helps build strong muscles and bones, reduces the risk of chronic disease, improves mood and slows physical decline.

Exercise can also significantly reduce the risk of developing conditions that negatively affect heart heath, such as high blood pressure, …

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