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

The benefits of regular exercise for cardiovascular health are well publicized, and at population level, evidence suggests that more exercise is better (Fig. 1).1,2 Regular exercise is associated with several cardiac adaptations, which is collectively referred to as “the athlete’s heart.” Such adaptations are evident in those who participate in regular training and competitions in sports of moderate to high intensity and are more prevalent in individuals participating in endurance sports. Since 1979, there have been in excess of 50 studies that have investigated the effect of endurance exercise on the left ventricle (LV). Studies suggest acute impairment of LV systolic and diastolic function postendurance exercise with increased LV volume and mass in the long term.