AF in Endurance Athletes
Regular exercise supports heart health, but long-term, high-volume endurance training may be associated with a higher risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) in some athletes. Specialist assessment can help you understand your heart rhythm and make informed decisions about your training and care.
Endurance & Heart Rhythm
Long-term endurance training may influence heart rhythm
Individualised Care
Care that considers your symptoms and activity goals
Targeted Testing
ECG, Holter and exercise-based assessment
Sports Cardiology
Specialist assessment for active people and athletes
Lisa’s Story
Lisa, a 57-year-old non-elite endurance road cyclist, was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AF). In the months leading up to her diagnosis, she noticed regular episodes of symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath and light headedness.
Watch the video to view Lisa’s full story.
Experiencing Rhythm Changes During Training?
If you experience palpitations, unusual breathlessness, dizziness, fainting or an unexplained change in exercise capacity, speak to your GP. They can assess your symptoms and arrange cardiac testing or specialist referral if needed.
Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia with increasing incidence in Australia1. It causes your heart to beat irregularly and often too fast. Moderate levels of exercise have been shown to be protective against developing AF. However, it has been found that there is a U-shaped relationship between physical activity and AF, with increasing prevalence in endurance athletes2.
People with untreated AF are at five times greater stroke risk than those without AF1. It can also lead to other conditions such as heart failure.
Click here to find out more about atrial fibrillation.
When to Seek Immediate Help: If you experience severe chest pain, sudden loss of consciousness, or sudden breathlessness, call 000 (triple zero) immediately. Don’t ignore warning signs—for ongoing or unexpected symptoms, see your GP promptly.
Arrhythmias
A regular heart beats around 60-100 beats per minute in a steady, regular rhythm. If your rhythm is fast, slow or uneven, this is known as an arrhythmia.
Many factors can influence your heart rate, including fitness level, emotions, medicine and age.
If your heart rate is notably below 60 bpm or above 100 bpm consistently you should contact your doctor for further investigation.
In many cases, an arrhythmia will be no reason for concern, however sometimes it can be a sign of other heart conditions, such as atrial fibrillation.
30-Second Pulse Check
Knowing your pulse can provide an important indication of heart health. Click here to download steps you can take to check your pulse.
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Tests used to assess Atrial Fibrillation
ECG Test
ECG Stress Test
