Risk stratification and exercise recommendations in cardiomyopathies and channelopathies: a practical guide for the multidisciplinary team

Abstract

Exercise offers a plethora of health benefits. However, certain genetic and acquired diseases such as cardiomyopathies and channelopathies are associated with sudden cardiac death during exercise. Several factors complicate exercise prescription in individuals living with these conditions. The lack of high-quality evidence supporting exercise recommendations, variation in the clinical phenotypes within the same condition and sparse physician education around exercise prescription all leads to a reluctance to provide specific guidance on how to engage in physical activity.This article aims to summarise the latest evidence underpinning risk stratification and current guideline recommendations for physical activity in individuals with cardiomyopathies and channelopathies wishing to engage in exercise. It also aims to provide a basic practical approach to exercise prescription for health professionals involved in the care of these patients. This approach may then serve as a foundation that can be easily personalised. Since risk can never be completely eliminated, all decisions regarding exercise participation should be taken following shared dialogue between the physician, patient and wider stake holders where appropriate.