If you’re a dialysis patient, a healthcare professional may have encouraged you to engage in regular physical activity. This is because it helps to manage weight, strengthen bones and muscles, and support heart and respiratory health. These are all areas that can be negatively affected by end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). 

Exercise can also become more difficult when the weather changes and it’s too uncomfortable to go outside for long periods of time. Learn how to start an indoor exercise regimen, along with specific types of exercises that work well when you need to stay inside.* 

What should I know before starting an exercise regimen?

Before starting a particular exercise routine as a dialysis patient, discuss the details with your doctor to ensure it is safe for you. Once you receive approval, there are still some basic guidelines to help you start and maintain your regimen safely and effectively. They include: 

• Begin slowly, and only gradually work up to heavier weights or longer workout times. 
• For peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients, exercising on an empty abdomen may be more comfortable than exercising with a fluid-filled abdomen. 
• For diabetes patients, keep an eye on your blood sugars, as exercise can cause them to go down. Speak to your doctor about making adjustments to your medicines or diet on the days that you exercise.  
• Schedule the time and length of your workouts on your calendar. Treating your exercise like a doctor’s appointment will help you to prioritize it. 
• Stop exercising, and seek your doctor’s advice, if you experience chest pain, unexpected shortness of breath, or severe muscle or joint pain.
• Write out your indoor exercise plan to help you stay on track. 

What are some indoor exercises to add to my plan?

There is a wide range of exercises you can do in your house. Experts recommend adding a variety of exercises to your plan, to work on different body parts and prevent boredom. Here are some tips. 

• Stretching can help to improve blood circulation, and does not require any special equipment. Ask your doctor about any precautions you may need to take to prevent harm to your vascular access.
• Cardio workouts are designed to promote cardiovascular, or heart, health. If you have room for a home gym, consider a stationary bike, treadmill, or other equipment. Taking a brisk walk at the mall or in the grocery store can also help. 
• Lifting weights is another way to increase blood flow, while also building muscle and strength. If you have an arteriovenous (AV) fistula for hemodialysis, or an abdominal catheter for PD, speak with your doctor first. Even if your doctor suggests only using light weights, it’s still beneficial and can easily be done while watching TV. 
• To help strengthen your muscles and increase flexibility, calisthenic exercises can easily be performed at home, require no equipment, and pair well with stretching exercises. Calisthenic exercises include sit-ups, push-ups, pull-ups, jumping jacks, squats, and calf raises, among others. 
• Doing household chores is something many people typically dread, but it can count as exercise. Sweeping, mopping, dusting, vacuuming, doing laundry, and cleaning out your closet or refrigerator, and similar activities can all be good mini-workouts. 

Will exercise affect my fluid restriction? 

Most dialysis patients must be mindful of their fluid consumption. Before you start your exercise routine, speak with your dietitian about your exercise plan. They can help guide you regarding fluid recommendations, and may ask you to keep track of your fluid intake and weight. 

It can be tough to keep up with your outdoor exercise routine when the weather is inhospitable, but staying active is still important to your health. Take the time to find exercises you can enjoy inside, whether at a local health club, indoor shopping center, or at home. 

*Indoor Exercises for People on Dialysis. (n.d.). DaVita. https://www.davita.com/treatment-services/dialysis/on-dialysis/indoor-exercises-for-people-on-dialysis+?utm_source=facebook