Researchers at Yale School of Medicine report that intense exercise does not raise the risk of serious heart events in individuals living with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy HCM. The findings were shared at a major gathering of heart specialists during the College of Cardiology Annual Scientific Session.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a condition where the heart muscle thickens, which can impair the heart’s ability to pump efficiently. For some people the disease shows little to no symptoms, but in others it carries a risk of sudden cardiac events, including death, especially among younger individuals. In the past, many clinicians recommended avoiding strenuous workouts and in certain cases even banned professional competition to protect heart health.
The study drew on a diverse cohort of 1534 individuals diagnosed with HCM, aged 8 to 60, representing five countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. About one in five participants were younger than 25, reflecting a broad age range often seen in clinical practice for this condition.
Within the group, 42 percent engaged in intensive training more than 60 hours per year, participating in activities such as running, swimming, basketball, and football. An additional 43 percent pursued moderate exercise, including brisk walking or structured aerobics. A smaller portion, 16 percent, led a largely inactive lifestyle, underscoring the varied levels of physical activity among people living with HCM.
Analyses indicated that individuals who exercised vigorously did not exhibit a higher risk of death, fainting, or other adverse cardiac events compared with those who exercised at lower intensities. The results suggest that with appropriate medical oversight, sustained, high-level physical activity can be feasible for many people with HCM, challenging earlier assumptions about unavoidable restrictions.
Experts emphasize the ongoing importance of regular clinical follow up with a cardiologist who has experience managing hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. An experienced clinician can tailor exercise recommendations to the patient’s cardiac profile, guide the intensity and type of activity, and help design an emergency plan should symptoms arise. This collaborative approach can support safer participation in sport and daily life, aligning physical fitness goals with individualized heart care.