Aerobic Training Induced Structural Changes of the Heart

Abstract

Exercise may cause structural changes, which may increase cardiac functions such as enhanced pumping mechanism due to increased heart mass and volume. These changes may contribute to better performance.  According to several studies, endurance training causes changes in structure of the heart since endurance trained athletes had larger LV dimensions, and mass. For instance, both cycling and rowing studies indicated positive structural adaptations of the heart; in addition, elite rowers had higher values than sub-elite rowers; this result suggests that elite athletes have higher level of adaptations supporting. Also, In all rat studies supported that endurance training increases LV mass, wall thickness and dimensions. Endurance training causes structural adaptations such as increased cardiac muscle mass, left ventricular wall thickness and chamber size. It is recommended that structural changes in the heart because of endurance training enhance the heart's ability to pump blood mainly by increasing its stroke volume. Training for adequate duration and time also should be taken in consideration to improve cardiac function because of the changes in the structure of the heart.

Keywords

• Heart; cardiovascular system; training; structural changes.