Physical exercise and atrial fibrillation in athletes and heart failure patients: Is it favorable or harmful?

Atrial fibrillation (AF), an expected epidemic in the coming decades, is commonly caused by ischemic heart disease and high blood pressure, and it is also associated with overweight and obesity. Physical exercise (PE) is considered a way to correct cardiovascular risk factors and it is therefore recommended in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. It is also an integral part of cardiac rehabilitation. Although it has been noted that PE can increase the risk of AF, the cardiovascular benefits of regular physical activity are unquestionable. An improved health status and a longer life expectancy have been proven in endurance athletes. Mild or moderate PE protects against AF, which may be associated with an improved left ventricular systolic and diastolic function, as well as with a decreased arterial stiffness. Cardiac rehabilitation with PE is a currently approved indication in patients with chronic heart failure, with or without AF, which is shown to increase functional capacity and life quality, as well as to reduce overall mortality and hospitalizations.