In Marfan syndrome, which activity is typically discouraged?

• A. Gentle walking
• B. Competitive track events and heavy lifting
• C. Swimming
• D. Yoga

Answer: (B)

Marfan syndrome weakens the connective tissue of the aorta, so the aortic root can dilate and be more prone to dissection. Activities that cause large increases in blood pressure or involve intense, sustained effort—like competitive track and heavy lifting—create significant shear stress on the aortic wall and can trigger a life‑threatening dissection. That’s why this option is discouraged. Safer choices are low‑to‑moderate intensity activities such as gentle walking, swimming, or yoga, which provide cardiovascular benefit with less acute BP rise. Of course, any exercise plan should be guided by a clinician and tailored to the individual’s aortic root size and overall status.