Exercise and Managing CKD

 This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult a professional.

When managing Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), exercise can be a crucial component of overall health.¹ However, it's essential to consult with your doctor or a physical therapist before starting any new exercise routine. They can assess your individual condition and recommend the most suitable exercises for you.

Here are some general guidelines for exercises that may be beneficial for people with CKD:

• Cardiovascular exercise: This type of exercise strengthens your heart and lungs, improves circulation, and helps manage blood pressure.² Examples include walking, swimming, cycling, and dancing.³ Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity cardiovascular exercise most days of the week.

• Strength training: Building muscle strength can help improve your overall physical function and reduce fatigue.⁴ Examples include lifting light weights, using resistance bands, or doing bodyweight exercises like squats and push-ups. Start with lighter weights and gradually increase the resistance as you get stronger. Aim for 2-3 strength training sessions per week, with rest days in between.

• Flexibility exercises: These exercises help improve your range of motion and prevent stiffness.⁵ Examples include stretching, yoga, and tai chi. Aim for flexibility exercises several times a week.⁶

Important considerations:

• Listen to your body: Pay attention to how you feel during exercise.⁷ If you experience any pain, discomfort, or unusual symptoms, stop immediately and rest.

• Start slowly and gradually increase intensity: Don't try to do too much too soon. Begin with shorter exercise sessions and gradually increase the duration and intensity as you get stronger.⁸

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after exercise to prevent dehydration.⁹

• Monitor your blood pressure and heart rate: If you have high blood pressure or other heart conditions, monitor your blood pressure and heart rate during exercise as advised by your doctor.

• Avoid strenuous exercise: High-intensity exercises that put a lot of stress on your kidneys, such as heavy weightlifting or contact sports, may not be suitable for people with CKD.

• Exercise with a partner or in a group: This can help you stay motivated and make exercise more enjoyable.¹⁰

Additional tips:

• Find an activity you enjoy: This will make it more likely that you'll stick with your exercise routine.

• Set realistic goals: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually work your way up.

• Make exercise a part of your daily routine: Schedule exercise into your day just like any other important appointment.

• Track your progress: Keep a record of your exercise sessions and note how you feel. This can help you stay motivated and see how far you've come.

Remember, exercise is an important part of managing CKD, but it's crucial to do it safely and effectively. Talk to your doctor or a physical therapist to develop an exercise plan that's right for you.