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Adaptation of left ventricular morphology to long−term training in sprint− and endurance−trained elite runners

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Abstract

Long−term studies on left ventricular (LV) adaptation have not been reported. The echocardiograms of 41 top−class runners (8 males and 6 females sprint−trained, 15 males and 12 females endurance−trained) were recorded at the beginning and after 1, 2, and 3 years of training. A one−way ANOVA and a linear regression analysis were conducted to determine changes and association between performance and LV values. Training resulted in an increase in performance and LV internal diameter at end−diastole (LVIDd) and decreases in end−diastolic interventricular septal wall thickness, and posterior wall thickness (PWTd). There were no significant differences in LV mass and LV ejection fraction (LVEF, %). The changes in PWTd were linked to enlargement of the LV. In athletes with unusual LV dilatation (>60 mm), LVIDd was related to performance and LVEF was >50%. Maximal wall thickness was <13 mm in all athletes. LV adaptations were independent of sex and type of training and related to the initial level of performance. We believe that LV enlargement in elite runners is a physiological adaptation and that the LVIDd is a predictor of running performance.

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Correspondence to Alejandro Legaz Arrese.

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Arrese, A.L., Carretero, M.G. & Blasco, I.L. Adaptation of left ventricular morphology to long−term training in sprint− and endurance−trained elite runners. Eur J Appl Physiol 96, 740–746 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-005-0076-6

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