Issues unique to the masters athlete.
As our population ages, promotion of physical activity as a tool to prevent and treat disease will become increasingly important. A number of physiologic changes occur with aging that may impact athletic performance, including decrease in muscle mass, decrease in maximum heart rate, and decrease in VO2max. These changes are not completely age-related, however, and losses are diminished with continued physical training. Exercise modestly improves bone density, improves function in osteoarthritis, and is vital for patients with coronary artery disease. Preparticipation evaluation should include screening for cardiovascular disease in high-risk populations. Very few contraindications for exercise in the elderly exist. Exercise in the older population is safe, healthy, and should be encouraged.