Staying active is a great way for chronic kidney disease patients to be healthy and reduce the risk of CKD complications. Cardio exercises are especially beneficial, as they also keep your heart strong. Since CKD patients tend to have an increased risk of heart disease, you want to make sure you are doing all you can to lower your risk!
Most cardio exercises are seen as low impact, meaning most CKD patients can participate in them regularly. However, you always want to speak to your doctor before you begin any exercise regimen…especially if you have been inactive for a long period of time.
With the following exercises, you can help to reduce your blood pressure and reduce your risk of heart disease!
Cardio Exercises for a Healthy Heart
Walking
The simplest exercise you can do to keep your heart functioning properly is walking. By moving large groups of muscles in the body, you are increasing your blood circulation without forcing your heart to work harder.
Walking helps to strengthen the heart so that it performs as it should. Burning calories while walking also helps to manage a healthy weight, which is essential to lower your risk for heart disease.
Walk 30 minutes per day, at least four days per week, in order to strengthen your heart. All you need is a comfortable pair of shoes and a flat place to walk, such as a local park or just around your neighborhood.
Swimming
Another very gentle cardio exercise that promotes heart health is swimming. This is better for older patients or those with joint problems, as the water supports your body weight while you are active.
Swimming is also great to burn calories, improve blood circulation and lose any unhealthy weight. Swimming alone can be a workout, but you can also join a water aerobics class to prevent boredom and give yourself a challenge.
Jogging
If you are physically fit enough to take on jogging, it can help strengthen your heart and other muscles in your body. Since jogging burns more calories, you may also lose unneeded weight faster or better maintain your current weight.
Make sure your doctor says it is okay for you to do something more strenuous such as jogging before you begin. Grab a durable pair of running shoes to lessen the pain of exercise, and consider carrying small weights on your jog to work your arms too.
Aerobics
If you have access to local fitness classes, taking aerobics is a great way to get your heart pumping. Though these classes may be too intense for some, most instructors understand that not everyone is at the same fitness level. They promote going at your own pace, so you may stop sooner than other participants.
Contact a local gym to see what classes are offered. Taking this kind of class helps to hold you accountable for exercise, and it can be change up your normal activity to prevent boredom.
As you can see, cardio exercise is important for a healthy heart. Make sure you do no overdo any activity you decide to participate in, and go at a pace that pushes you without being too difficult.
Also published on Medium.
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