Lack of sex-specific differences in the associations between the dimensions of great vessels and exercise performance in amateur cyclists.

Abstract

BackgroundEndurance training enhances exercise capacity and triggers cardiovascular adaptations in both males and females. We investigated the relationship between the dimensions of great vessels and exercise capacity in amateur cyclists while considering sex differences.MethodsUsing resting transthoracic echocardiography, we measured the dimensions of the main pulmonary artery (PA), aorta, and inferior vena cava (IVC) in 190 participants, who subsequently underwent a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) until exhaustion.ResultsThe mean age of study participants was 30 years. Males (71%) exhibited a larger aortic annulus (approximately 3.5 mm, pConclusionLarger vessel dimensions (of the aorta, PA, and IVC) were associated with greater peak exercise capacity in amateur cyclists, with no significant sex differences in these associations.