Wire · Gulf Edu
Exercise interventions are underutilized in the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AFib), an abnormal heart rhythm disorder. A one-year clinical trial with a tailored exercise program reduced time spent in AFib by 45% compared with usual care (3.9% vs. 7.1%). Participants in the exercise group had improved cardiorespiratory fitness, a lower resting heart rate, 37% fewer total hospitalizations, and 46% fewer AFib-related hospitalizations.
An individualized exercise program significantly reduced atrial fibrillation burden—the amount of time spent in arrhythmia—in people with the condition. Some individuals with AFib may avoid exercise due to concerns that it could trigger episodes or worsen symptoms like shortness of breath, heart palpitations, fatigue, or dizziness. However, new research suggests a carefully designed exercise program could help reduce AFib time and improve cardiovascular health.
The NEXAF trial, led by Dr. Bjarne Nes from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, investigated whether a combination of supervised and home-based exercise could reduce AFib burden and improve quality of life among people with symptomatic, non-permanent AFib over one year. Participants in the exercise group spent almost half as much time in AFib compared to those receiving usual care.
The trial included 295 people, with an average age of 64, and 30% women. They were randomly assigned to either usual care or a one-year exercise intervention, which included eight supervised, high-intensity sessions followed by home-based exercise with remote guidance via smartwatch, app, and web platform. Insertable cardiac monitors tracked AFib burden.
While AFib burden decreased by 45%, quality-of-life improvements were not statistically significant. Secondary findings showed improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness, resting heart rate, and reduced hospitalizations. The trial’s limitations include a focus on physically inactive participants with non-permanent AFib and a structured high-intensity phase.
Experts recommend consulting a cardiologist before starting or intensifying an exercise program, emphasizing individualized plans and medical oversight. The findings suggest exercise could become a primary treatment for AFib, though it should not replace medications.
Source: Healthline
