Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 9, 2026

Real-Time Electrocardiogram Monitoring During Treadmill Training in Mice
Published on: May 5, 2022
Training the modern sports cardiologist: Designing a fellowship curriculum for a growing subspecialty
Kellen Alexander Knowles1, Matthew Belanger1, Alan P Jacobsen1
1Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
Background:
Sports cardiology is a rapidly evolving subspecialty addressing the prevention, evaluation, and management of cardiovascular disease in athletes and highly active individuals. Despite rising demand, no Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME)-accredited fellowship exists, resulting in limited and inconsistent training pathways.
Objective:
We describe the development of a nonstandard training (NST) fellowship curriculum in sports cardiology at our institution, outlining its rationale, structure, and competencies to provide a potential model for other programs.
Methods:
Guided by American College of Cardiology (ACC) and European Society of Cardiology (ESC) frameworks, we designed a curriculum integrated into the third year of general cardiology fellowship. Core elements include structured clinical rotations, didactic teaching, case-based learning, pre-participation screenings, and scholarly activities. A multidisciplinary consortium of regional cardiologists was formed to expand clinical exposure and mentorship opportunities.
Results:
The curriculum emphasizes key competencies: pre-participation screening, distinguishing exercise-induced cardiac remodeling from pathology, management of symptomatic or diagnosed athletes, and shared decision-making. Clinical experiences are complemented by formal educational sessions, research opportunities, and collaborative conferences.
Conclusion:
A rigorous, competency-based NST fellowship in sports cardiology is feasible within existing fellowship structures. Our model may serve as a framework for institutions seeking to formalize training in this emerging subspecialty.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care
Exercise and Cardiovascular Response
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Pathophysiology of Cardiac Performance
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy I: Introduction and Classification

