Regular physical exercise reduces the accumulation of plaque in the arteries, although a paradox exists among long-term endurance athletes who often exhibit higher coronary artery calcification (CAC) despite their overall cardiovascular benefits.

noli's read

This finding is based on the "athlete's paradox," which is widely documented in observational studies (e.g., Master@Heart study, Heinz Nixdorf Recall Study). Research confirms that while regular exercise generally protects heart health, intensive endurance athletes paradoxically show higher calcification (CAC) scores than non-athletes. However, it is crucial to note that this calcification in athletes often seems to correspond to a plaque composition that is more "stable" and less vulnerable to rupture, unlike the unstable plaques observed in typical pathological contexts. The assertion that exercise reduces accumulation is broadly supported by its effects on risk factors, but the idea of a direct mechanical reduction of plaque is oversimplified. The scientific community considers that the overall cardiovascular benefits (longevity, metabolic health) far outweigh the risks associated with this specific calcification in athletes. There is no evidence that exercise "cleans" arteries in a magical way, but it does promote protective vascular remodeling.

the sources

1. 1Corrado D, Pelliccia A, Bjørnstad HH, et al. (ESC) 2005
2. 2Maron BJ, Friedman RA, Kligfield P, et al. (AHA/ACC) 2014