LONG-TERM CARDIOVASCULAR ADAPTATIONS TO ENDURANCE TRAINING: A PREVENTIVE CARDIOLOGY PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

This study investigates the long-term cardiovascular adaptations to endurance training from a preventive cardiology perspective. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative methodologies. The quantitative component involved a 12-month longitudinal cohort study where participants engaged in structured endurance training. Cardiovascular markers such as resting heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), stroke volume (SV), cardiac output (CO), and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) were measured at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. The results revealed significant improvements in VO2 max, reductions in resting heart rate, and a marked decrease in blood pressure. Stroke volume and cardiac output were also found to increase, reflecting the enhanced efficiency of the cardiovascular system. In the qualitative phase, interviews with participants provided insights into the subjective benefits of endurance training, including improved quality of life and better management of cardiovascular health risks. These findings demonstrate that long-term endurance training results in substantial cardiovascular improvements, which could play a key role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. The study underscores the importance of endurance training in promoting long-term heart health and its relevance in preventive cardiology practices.