Physical activity plays a vital part in delaying the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). A healthcare professional may have encouraged you to exercise, but do you understand its importance and how to start a new exercise routine? Learn more about exercising with CKD and tips for getting started.

How is exercise beneficial for CKD? 

When done correctly, exercise can give you more energy and make it easier for you to complete necessary physical tasks. This is because exercise will: 

• Improve muscle strength and function
• Improve or maintain blood pressure control 
• Lower levels of blood fats (cholesterol and triglycerides)
• Improve sleep
• Assist with weight management

What should I do before starting a new exercise routine?

Speak with your healthcare team to learn if and what exercises may be best for you. According to the National Kidney Foundation, when planning an exercise program, it’s wise to follow these four guidelines: 

• Include various types of exercise, from cardio activities such as walking, swimming, aerobics, and dancing, to strengthening exercises like resistance training and weight lifting. 
• Exercise duration should build up gradually, to prevent injuries and burnout. 
• Create an exercise plan, and aim to exercise at least three days a week to get the most benefit from it. 
• The intensity of the workout should increase gradually, and be a “comfortable push.” 

What are the best times to exercise?

The best workout time for each person may differ, but it may be helpful to schedule a time for your workout. Here are some suggestions regarding when to exercise. 

• Exercise at least one hour after a large meal.
• Avoid hot times of the day if exercising outside.
• Morning and/or evening seem to be ideal times for many people.
• Avoid exercising within the hour before your bedtime.

When should I stop exercising? 

Exercise can become dangerous if the length or intensity becomes too much for your body. Some signs that you should stop exercising include feeling:

• Tired
• Short of breath
• Chest pain
• Irregular or rapid heartbeats
• Nauseous
• Leg cramps
• Dizzy or light-headed 

When should I not exercise?

Some clear signs you should not exercise as a CKD patient are:

• You have a fever.
• You have changed your dialysis or medicine schedule.
• Your physical condition has changed.
• You have eaten too much.
• The weather is hot and humid and you are exercising outside.
• You experience joint or bone problems that worsen when exercising.

If you stop exercising due to injury or health concerns, speak to your doctor before beginning again. 

*Staying Fit With Kidney Disease. (2019, June 25). National Kidney Foundation. https://www.kidney.org/atoz/content/stayfit