Introduction
Sport and regular exercise are good for the cardiovascular system and can provide effective relief for patients with atrial fibrillation. There are recent studies confirming that in people with atrial fibrillation, an increase in fitness can lead to a significant improvement in symptoms. Exercise counteracts obesity, heart complaints and vascular calcification, the risk factors for coronary heart disease (CHD) and atrial fibrillation. People with atrial fibrillation can and should do sports, but the right kind of sport is important.
What sports can I do with atrial fibrillation?
What sports are allowed in atrial fibrillation depends on the therapy of the disease. In principle, sports with a low intensity of stress are well suited: Walking, jogging, cycling, ergometer training, cross-country skiing, gymnastics, gold and sports games such as table tennis are allowed. If ablation treatment (sclerotherapy) is chosen, the patient can do all kinds of sports just a few weeks after the procedure.
However, it is important to check whether other medications are being taken that may reduce the patient’s performance. Patients who suffer from atrial fibrillation as well as diseases such as coronary heart disease (CHD) or cardiac insufficiency should strive for regular endurance exercise. For example, 30 minutes of brisk walking, cycling, exercise bikes or Nordic walking three to five times a week.
What sports should I not do with atrial fibrillation?
If one takes medication, so-called antiarrhythmic drugs, to stabilize the heart rhythm, competitive sports as well as intensively pursued leisure sports (e.g. marathon) are not permitted. Patients taking anticoagulants (e.g. Marcumar®) should avoid sports with a high risk of injury, as this increases the risk of bleeding. Skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, climbing, horseback riding, soccer, handball, martial arts and similar sports should be avoided at all costs as part of a blood-thinning medication. If you suffer from heart disease in addition to atrial fibrillation, your physical fitness and possible sports should be discussed with your cardiologist beforehand.