Coagulability and Rheology: Hematologic Benefits From Exercise, Fish, and Aspirin. Implications for Athletes and Nonathletes

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Abstract
In brief: Physical activity makes the blood more fluid and less likely to clot. The healthy hematologic adaptations to exercise (enhanced fibrinolysis, expanded plasma volume, decreased hematocrit, increased red cell deformability, and decreased blood viscosity) seem to enhance the delivery of oxygen and decrease the risk of thrombosis. Regular exercise, then, by changing the blood, may offer the elite athlete enhanced performance and the general population reduced risk of heart attack. Increased amounts of fish in the diet and—for selected persons—low-dose aspirin, may be useful antithrombotic adjuncts to exercise.