Testing moderate exercise safety and benefits in young people with Marfan syndrome

This study investigates whether moderate physical activity—things like walking, swimming, or light strength training—can be safe and even protective for young people with Marfan syndrome. Currently, many patients are told to avoid almost all exercise due to concerns about the heart and aorta, but recent research in animals suggests that moderate exercise might actually help protect these structures rather than harm them. This trial will test that idea in real people.

Most young people with Marfan syndrome are advised to avoid exercise to prevent life-threatening complications like aortic dissection. However, this strict restriction often leads to deconditioning, weakness, joint pain, and depression. A recent animal study hinted that moderate exercise might actually protect the heart, not damage it—so researchers want to find out if this is true in humans and whether carefully supervised activity could improve both physical and mental health.