The CAMAS Study: A Cross-sectional magnetic resonance imaging study on the myocardial effects of long-term anaerobic exercise using structure-function correlation

The CAMAS Study is investigating what long-term gym-based (anaerobic) exercise does to the heart compared to endurance-based (aerobic) exercise like running or cycling. While the heart benefits of aerobic exercise are well established, much less is known about how years of weightlifting and resistance training shape the heart's structure and function — and whether there are any hidden risks. Participants will undergo cardiac MRI scans and ECGs to produce detailed images of their heart, along with optional blood tests. The study will follow participants annually for up to ten years to track any changes and record any cardiovascular events or diagnoses over time. This long-term view will help researchers identify whether certain heart patterns seen in gym athletes are benign adaptations or potential warning signs. You may be eligible if you are 18 or older and have trained regularly (at least 3 sessions per week for at least 5 years) in either predominantly gym-based or endurance-based exercise. You are not eligible if you have known heart disease, a recent significant COVID-19 illness, a family history of cardiomyopathy, or any implants that are incompatible with MRI scanning.