A study published online Sept. 10 in JACC: Clinical Electrophysiology found that strength training is not associated with ventricular arrhythmia in people with arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM). The research directly addresses a common concern about whether resistance exercise could trigger dangerous heart rhythms in this condition.
ACM is characterized by structural abnormalities of the heart muscle and an elevated risk of arrhythmias, which has led many clinicians to recommend cautious or restricted exercise. The new findings suggest that, at least for strength training, such caution may not be necessary—although the authors did not claim the results apply to all forms or intensities of exercise.
The study offers a measured, evidence-based perspective that could help patients and cardiologists make more personalized decisions about physical activity. As with any single study, the results will need confirmation in broader populations and longer follow-up periods before guidelines are likely to change.