The heart of sport

Behind every athlete’s drive, there’s a heart that keeps pace, and sometimes, silently struggles. “Le Cœur du Sport” (The heart of sport), a collaboration between ATCL and Hôtel-Dieu de France, turned the spotlight on what often goes unseen: cardiovascular health. Members of all ages gathered for a morning where medical expertise met practical guidance, where blood pressure readings and ECGs became as essential as warm-ups and stretches, and where questions about prevention were answered before problems emerged.

With demonstrations on CPR, defibrillators, and tailored fitness advice, the event wasn’t just about testing the heart, it was about understanding it, protecting it, and embedding safety into the rhythm of sport. The initiative blended education, action, and community in a way that reminded participants that caring for one’s health is as vital as chasing records or perfecting a technique.

Community-focused screenings

“Le Cœur du Sport” was designed as a community-driven effort to educate sports enthusiasts on the importance of medical screenings, preventative care, and ongoing health monitoring. On Saturday, June 27, at ATCL’s Multipurpose Hall, in a professional yet welcoming environment, participants benefited from free cardiovascular evaluations, medical consultations, personalized risk assessments, and tailored guidance suited to their athletic profile.

Throughout the morning, numerous members underwent screenings that included vital signs, blood pressure, blood sugar, height and weight measurements, and ECG consultations. Those identified with potential risks received medical referrals and guidance.

Beyond clinical assessments, the event incorporated an educational component. A mini-conference on the athlete’s heart explored cardiovascular risks associated with sports, while practical demonstrations showcased defibrillator use and cardiopulmonary resuscitation techniques. These hands-on sessions left a lasting impression, highlighting the accessibility and relevance of preventive measures.

The medical team from Hôtel-Dieu de France included Dr. Simon Abou Jaoudé, Head of Cardiology; Dr. Joëlle Khadra, Emergency Physician; Dr. Nicole Gebara, Hypertensiologist; Mr. Elie Farah, Cardiology Resident; and Dr. Latifé Karam from Medical Affairs. Their expertise, coupled with interactive engagement with participants, created an atmosphere of listening, awareness, and active prevention.

Promoting safe and responsible sports

For ATCL, the event reflected a broader philosophy: sport should be practiced with enjoyment, performance, and safety. By pairing physical activity with medical oversight and preventive care, the club reaffirmed its commitment to the well-being of its members and to promoting responsible sports practices. The success of this first edition promises more events to continue advancing cardiovascular health and preventive measures across Lebanon’s athletic community.

“Le Cœur du Sport” marked a crucial first step, a shared commitment to safer sports, better prevention, and cardiovascular care designed for the needs of athletes at every level.