The acute effect of endurance exercise on right ventricular structure, function and mechanics: A systematic review and meta-analysis

There have been many studies since the late 80’s investigating the effect of endurance exercise on the left ventricle. More recently, attention has shifted to the right heart, with suggestions that endurance exercise may have a detrimental effect on the right ventricle. This systematic review and meta-analysis summarises and critiques twenty-six studies, including 649 athletes, examining the acute impact of endurance exercise on the right ventricle. We also present a sub-analysis contrasting ultra-endurance with endurance exercise. Finally, we identify areas for future research.