Experts explain when to have your heart checked before Hyrox and a marathon
After the death of 41-year-old fitness trainer Leroy Saunders during the BYD Hyrox Bangkok competition on August 13, experts reminded that good physical fitness or a high VO2 max does not rule out hidden heart disease. Saunders collapsed on the first day of the four-day tournament and was taken to hospital, where he died, Channel NewsAsia reports. The family did not disclose the cause of death.
Saunders, a native of South Africa, had previously competed in Hyrox: last year, he took part in the doubles category. He also owned a CrossFit gym in Bangkok and was well known in the functional fitness and martial arts communities.
Different strain on the heart
Cardiologist Bharat Vasdev Hialani of the NHG Heart Institute at Tan Tock Seng Hospital noted that cardiac events have occurred during various endurance activities, including marathons, triathlons and cycling races. According to him, no endurance competition is entirely risk-free.
A marathon places prolonged strain on the cardiovascular system for several hours. Hyrox involves eight kilometres of running broken up by functional exercises and may cause rapid spikes in heart rate and blood pressure. The risk depends on physical conditioning, existing medical conditions and readiness for the specific competition format.
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Berwin Manoharan, co-founder of Catalyst Performance, advises devoting the main part of preparation to aerobic endurance rather than only practicing individual stations. In his assessment, preparation for Hyrox should begin 12–16 weeks before the competition.
When to see a doctor
Hialani stressed that early coronary artery disease, inherited heart muscle disorders, rhythm disturbances, congenital abnormalities and high blood pressure may not become apparent until intense physical exertion. It is particularly important to undergo an assessment several months before starting a new sport, substantially increasing training intensity, or taking part in a first marathon or Hyrox.
A high VO2 max indicates physical capacity but is not a diagnostic test for ruling out heart disease. A doctor can determine the need for an ECG, echocardiography, a stress test, Holter monitoring or CT scans of the coronary arteries, taking into account age, symptoms, family history and risk factors.
During a race, medical help should be sought immediately in case of chest pain or pressure, unusual shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, rapid or irregular heartbeat, sudden severe weakness or collapse.
