Sport cardiology is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on the relationship between physical activity and heart health. This specialty plays a crucial role in detecting hidden heart conditions that may not show symptoms in daily life but could become dangerous during intense physical activity. Through advanced cardiac assessments—such as ECGs, echocardiography, and exercise stress testing—sport cardiology helps determine whether the heart is fit to handle physical exertion.
Before starting training or competitive sports, a simple cardiac check-up can be life-saving, regardless of age. The pre-participation evaluation typically includes: Health history: Detailed questions about personal and family medical history, medications, current symptoms, and lifestyle. Physical exam: Including checking blood pressure, heart rate, and cardiovascular exam. ECG (Electrocardiogram): Helps detect heart arrhythmias or structural heart issues. Blood tests: To check cholesterol, glucose, and other metabolic markers that may affect exercise safety. Screening for specific conditions: Depending on age, family history, or symptoms, additional tests like echocardiograms, Holter monitors, or stress test may be recommended.
The need for sport cardiology arises from the fact that certain heart conditions may go unnoticed until the body is placed under stress. Even young athletes can have undiagnosed conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, arrhythmias, or congenital heart defects, which may not cause noticeable symptoms at rest but can lead to cardiac events during exertion. These include congenital heart abnormalities, rhythm disorders, cardiomyopathies, and coronary artery disease.
Treatment and Management Treatment in sport cardiology depends on the individual’s condition and level of activity. It may include lifestyle modifications, medication, or structured exercise programs tailored to the heart’s capacity. Rather than restricting movement, sport cardiology focuses on enabling safe participation in physical activity. The goal is to ensure that exercise remains safe, effective, and beneficial for the heart.
For those recovering from heart events or procedures, supervised rehabilitation and gradual return-to-sport plans are essential. With proper monitoring and guidance, many patients with heart conditions can continue to exercise and even improve their cardiovascular health.
A Final Advice Exercise is one of the most powerful tools for preventing heart disease—but it must be practiced wisely. Listen to your body. Unusual fatigue, chest discomfort, dizziness, or shortness of breath during exercise should never be ignored. Seek medical advice early. A healthy heart is not built by effort alone, but by informed and balanced choices.
With the right guidance, sport can be a path to strength, recovery, and long-term well-being—keeping every heartbeat safe and strong.
By: Dr. Zina Molla Zenali Specialist Cardiologist Clemenceau Medical Center Hospital – Dubai
