Training Performance Alone Fails to Gauge Heart Health, Experts Warn

Athletes who can complete a Hyrox event or a marathon may still have undetected heart issues. Cardiologists say that VO2 max and race times only reflect aerobic capacity, not underlying cardiac pathology. They recommend that individuals with high training loads consider an electrocardiogram or other screening tests to detect arrhythmias, structural abnormalities, or other conditions that could lead to sudden cardiac events. The article highlights that performance metrics can mask serious heart problems, and that routine screening can identify risks early. The guidance is aimed at serious runners and fitness competitors who rely on performance data to gauge health.