Matt welcomes Cardiologist, Brian Keeffe MD, to discuss heart health. During the episode, they discuss the surprising prevalence of heart issues and potential concerns among the athletic population. Many athletes assume they are “heart-healthy” because they train, but this may not always be the case. Don’t leave your heart health to hope and assumptions. This conversation will shed light on considerations, tests, and contributing factors of heart disease. Topics include: Why athletes should even care about heart health? (24:48) “People who do lifelong exercise can still develop the clogging of the arteries - atherosclerosis.” What factors should we consider before launching into high levels of training? What are some things a Cardiologist can uncover in tests and scans? Arrhythmia - What is it? Warning signs? (31:17) "Electrical systems become disorganized and you lose synchronicity.” What are the risks surrounding high cholesterol and lipid medications? When would you recommend a calcium scan and what will it show? Hypertension - What causes high blood pressure and what are the inherent dangers? Dr. Keeffe’s thoughts on wearable technology How important is it for people to connect to a cardiologist?  What are insulin resistance and glucose intolerance? “Diet and exercise are the best medications we have.”   Episode Timestamps 0:00-03:15 Welcome, Episode Introduction, and a word from our sponsor, Inside Tracker - use code PURPLEPATCHPRO25 for 25% in the InsideTracker Store. 05:05-07:35 Squaddie Update -Purple Patch Tri Squad Open House - March 1st at 5:00pm PT - Looking to amplify your training this season? Join the Purple Patch Tri Squad program manager for an in-depth tour of our world class triathlon training program to see how its training, education, community, and ultra-flexible structure work -- and how they can help you take your training and racing to the next level. There will be plenty of time for Q&A as well. 5:42-10:20 Word of the Week: How to Raise an Olympian - By Morgan Arritola 10:35 The Meat and Potatoes - How Healthy is Your Heart? A discussion with Dr. Brian Keeffe About Dr. Brian Keefe MyMarinHealth.org Dr. Brian Keeffe is originally from Portland, Oregon. He has been practicing cardiovascular medicine in Marin County since 2004. Dr. Keeffe has special clinical interests in preventive cardiology, cardiac CT imaging, and the cardiovascular benefits of exercise. Purple Patch Resources This episode is sponsored by our collaboration with INSIDE TRACKER. Inside Tracker and Purple Patch - Receive 25% off their services with code: PURPLEPATCHPRO25 Ask Matt Anything - Leave a voicemail question for Matt Learn more about Purple Patch Squad High-Performance Training Program Join Bike Squad - Don’t just exercise and work out; learn to train with our structured online cycling program Join Run Squad - Increase your running performance through our progressive, multi-sport approach to running Purple Patch Training Camps - Education, Skills, Community Learn more about Purple Patch Fully Customized 1:1 Coaching Learn more about Purple Patch Strength Programming Purple Patch Swim Analysis Stay Up-to-Date with Purple Patch News and Events Purple Patch Upcoming Webinars and Events