Dialysis: The 3-Step Formula to Be More Active

How much exercise do you get per day? If you don’t know, you’re not alone.

Here’s the truth. More than 80 percent of adults don’t get enough exercise, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

So how much exercise should you get?

• 150 minutes of cardio-based exercise like walking, swimming, or biking
• 2 days of strength training a week
• And if you’re older, at least 3 days of balance exercises

Think being on dialysis is a good excuse to avoid exercise? Think again. Exercise can actually help you feel better, improve your mood and your health.

Not sure how to get started? Follow this 3-step formula to exercise on dialysis.

1. Talk with your doctor

If you’re already active, keep up the good work. If you’re not exercising, start by talking with your doctor. Your doctor may recommend simple activities and exercises you can do on your own. Working with a physical therapist can also help you build strength, increase endurance, and improve balance.

2. Choose activities you enjoy

You don’t have to run a marathon or climb a mountain. Even a little exercise can make a difference. Make it easy by choosing simple activities like walking or stretching.

Even a little exercise can help:

• Improve digestion
• Boost energy levels
• Lower blood sugar levels
• Control blood pressure
• Lower the risk for heart disease and stroke
• Reduce stress

As you build strength, endurance and balance, you can add other activities.

3. Start

Thinking about being more active or getting more exercise? Now…today…is always the best time to start.

If you feel tired and out of shape, aim for just 15 to 20 minutes of exercise per day. And stick with it. You’ll start to feel better, have more energy, and be healthier.

Want to supercharge your exercise routine to help you with dialysis treatments?

Combine exercise with these renal diet foods low in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus.