If you are someone who runs everyday to keep their heart healthy, may it be a marathon, a 5K, a 10K or even just jogging on a daily basis, you need to look after your heart. And a little extra TLC may also be required to keep your heart in its best shape. This is because sometimes over exertion can also lead to heart-related issues, this can cause people to collapse during a race, almost have a cardiac arrest or simply not feel okay while they are doing their favourite activity.

Recently, a cardiologist, Dr. Alok Chopra spoke about this issue in his Instagram video. He works as a functional medicine expert and shared some preventative measures that a runner can take in order to avoid any heart related issues from happening due to exertion caused during a long run.

The question is very valid. As one starts running in the first place to keep their heart healthy, so why does a runner need to take heart tests? This is because one should understand the intensity of physical activity their heart allows. Mentioning the importance of taking care of the heart, Dr. Chopra said, “Runners, whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or just starting out, your heart health should always be a priority. No matter your age, it’s crucial to stay informed about your cardiovascular health.” He also mentioned that there are some preventative tests that one can take in order to know the condition of their heart.

“Consider a CT angiogram and a thallium test at least once a year (depending on your age and other factors) to keep your heart in check, avoid risks, and ensure you’re performing at your best,” Dr Alok added.

He also advised: “If you’re just starting out, make sure you’re trained well—at least 6 to 12 months, before you take on any big races. Stay proactive, stay healthy!”